Abstract:
ABSTRACT
This report presents the results of transparency assessments carried out in Rwanda. It provides
a comprehensive picture of the level of transparency and the potential vulnerability to
corruption of four selected functions of the pharmaceutical sector which are Selection of
medicines, Registration of medicines, Procurement and distribution of medicines. The
methodology provides both qualitative and quantitative information. The data were collected
data by conducting a series of interviews with carefully selected key informants. The
information collected was then converted using a rough quantification method into a zero to
10 scales, to provide a score for each function in terms of vulnerability to corruption (minimal
to extreme). The scoring indicates vulnerability in terms of the policy, the regulatory and
administrative structures and the procedures at the time of the survey. The quantitative data
reveals that the selection and Registration of medicines are both moderately vulnerable to the
corruption; the medicines procurement received the highest scores and is minimally vulnerable
to corruption; while distribution of medicines is marginally vulnerable to the corruption.
In summary, the findings and methodology that this study introduces can help health
specialists and government decision makers prioritize those areas in the pharmaceutical
system, which need the highest investment and regulation. This information, in turn, helps to
ensure that investments in the pharmaceutical system are maximized and that access to
essential medicines is improved.
