March 6, 2026, Copenhagen – We are proud to announce the signing of an MoU with the University of Rwanda, to launch newborn screening feasibility and pilot project for the most prevalent, treatable, as well as actionable genetic disorders in Rwanda using gMendel® technology.
This milestone is the result of months of dedicated work that began with H.E. Dr. Diane Gashumba, Ambassador of Rwanda to the Nordic countries and former Minister of Health, the team from the embassy and Prof. Léon Mutesa, Director of the Center for Human Genetics at the University of Rwanda. We are deeply grateful for their vision and support.
🔹 H.E. Dr. Diane Gashumba, Ambassador of Rwanda to the Nordic countries:
“We are proud to join forces with gMendel® to launch a National Program for the Early Detection of Treatable/Actionable Genetic Disorders in Rwanda using gMendel® technology.”
🔹 Prof. Léon Mutesa, University of Rwanda and genetic consultant at the Rwanda Military and Teaching Hospital:
“This partnership marks a key milestone in advancing early disease detection and improving child healthcare through cutting-edge clinical research and innovative technologies in Rwanda.”
🔹 Dr. Chris Kyriakidis, gMendel®’s CEO:
“For me personally, this project is deeply meaningful. The first time I visited Rwanda, over 15 years ago, I was struck by its spirit of innovation and commitment to progress. From pioneering environmental policies to community-driven initiatives like Umuganda, to leading the world with over 60% of parliament seats held by women. Rwanda continues to inspire.
Despite major progress in public health, with infant mortality reduced to ~25 per 1,000 live births, there is still work to do. With gMendel®, we aim to contribute to Rwanda’s journey toward health equity by making early, affordable genetic screening accessible to all newborns.”
With national integration planned for late 2026, we anticipate this milestone will also mark the beginning of sustainable revenue generation for gMendel® and for the sustainability of the project, a critical step for any technology start up to continue scaling its impact.
We are excited to build this important program together with our Rwandan partners and global supporters.