Rising mental health cases in Rwanda highlighted after Kigali car-smashing incident

By Boris Prince Cyubahiro.

Mental health cases in Rwanda have continued to rise in recent years, with health authorities reporting significant increases in severe depression, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related conditions, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the management of CARAES Ndera Hospital, these conditions account for a substantial portion of the growing number of patients seeking mental health care.

Although the global increase in mental health disorders following COVID-19 was estimated at around 30%, Rwanda recorded a slightly lower but still considerable rise. The surge has pushed patient numbers beyond the hospital’s capacity by more than 116%, with nearly half of the cases originating from the City of Kigali.

This broader mental health context came into focus following a recent incident in the City of Kigali, where a man was captured on video chasing people and smashing the windows of parked vehicles using an object resembling a metal bar. The footage, which circulated widely on social media, raised public concern.

The Rwanda National Police later confirmed that the man had been arrested and that preliminary investigations revealed he was suffering from a mental health condition. He was subsequently transferred to CARAES Ndera Hospital for specialized care.

Authorities emphasized that the incident underscores the growing burden of mental health disorders and the need for continued investment in mental health services, early intervention, and community awareness. 

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