Madam Jeannette Kagame was awarded an Honorary Doctorate for her remarkable commitment to advancing healthcare, education, and the pursuit of ensuring that these services reach everyone without leaving anyone behind

Madam Jeannette Kagame was awarded an Honorary Doctorate for her remarkable commitment to advancing healthcare, education, and the pursuit of ensuring that these services reach everyone without leaving anyone behind.

This degree was conferred on January 25, 2026, during the 10th anniversary celebration of the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), in an event held at the university's campus located in Butaro, Burera District.

The event coincided with the graduation of 78 UGHE students, including 30 medical doctors who had completed their studies over more than six years, having started in 2019. They are the first doctors to graduate from the Butaro campus since its opening.

Other graduates include those who completed their master's degree programs in various fields.

While presenting this diploma to Madam Jeannette Kagame, Honorary Chair of UGHE, Dr. Jim Yong Kim stated, "She is a leader who has worked hard in the areas of education, health, and community development. As the Honorary Chair of Imbuto Foundation, Madam Jeannette Kagame has advocated for girls' education, supported those without resources to learn well, advanced family welfare, and promoted health initiatives related to reproductive health, including combating cervical cancer, vaccinating girls, screening women, and addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Her work has helped thousands of people both in Rwanda and beyond."

She was praised for her contributions to the health of newborns, combating cancer, addressing mental health issues, promoting gender equality and empowerment of women, fostering unity and reconciliation among Rwandans, all of which have enabled Rwanda to surpass other countries in fostering inclusive development.

Madam Jeannette Kagame was praised for her significant role in the development of UGHE since its inception, particularly before and after the passing of Dr. Paul Farmer. She assured the university that it will continue to operate effectively.

Dr. Jim stated, "In 2022, when the university was going through difficult times, after Dr. Farmer passed away, Madam Jeannette Kagame was there for the UGHE family, providing comfort, helping to ensure stability, and encouraging us all. She did this selflessly, with unwavering dedication, while supporting all of us."

She said that although Dr. Paul Farmer won't be able to celebrate with the graduates, his work and positive impact will continue to inspire for generations to come. "This award reflects his dedication, passion for empowering youth, commitment to protecting all, and striving for equal healthcare access," she said.

She continued, "Dr. Farmer was among the few who valued human dignity. He had great education but never used it to show superiority, instead, he used it to fulfill his duty to help and care for others. We greatly appreciate Dr. Farmer, and we believe his legacy will continue to inspire us all."

First Lady Jeannette Kagame also thanked Dr. Farmer's wife, Didi Bertrand, and their children for their strength and support, which enabled him to achieve great results and stay true to his mission.