In a significant step toward integrating oral health into primary healthcare services in Rwanda, the Oral Health Solutions Organization (OHSO), in partnership with Colgate-Palmolive, has successfully conducted a one-day training session on oral health education for 100 nurses held at Rabagirana Training Center in Masaka, Kicukiro District.
The training, guided by the theme “Enhancing Primary Health Care Through Oral Health Education”, brought together nurses from Kicukiro Districts to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to promote oral hygiene and prevent common dental diseases at the community level.
Rwanda faces a growing challenge in oral health, with limited numbers of trained dental professionals and a rising burden of untreated oral diseases. Recognizing that nurses are often the first point of contact in the health system, OHSO designed this initiative to fill a critical knowledge gap and improve community-level interventions in oral care.
“By empowering nurses with practical knowledge in oral health, we’re not only enhancing their clinical competencies but also extending the reach of preventive dental care to where it’s most needed,” said Frank Rwema, Legal Representative at OHSO.
The training modules were delivered by a team of seven experienced oral health professionals. The sessions covered a wide range of topics, including:
- Oral Health Fundamentals and Disease Prevention
- Tooth Development and Proper Brushing Techniques
- Recognition and Management of Common Dental Conditions
- The Dangers of Harmful Traditional Practices
- Nutrition and Its Impact on Dental Health
- Colgate Smiles App Introduction for Ongoing Engagement
Each module was delivered through interactive lectures, group discussions, hands-on demonstrations, and real-time Q&A segments. Participants were also provided with training manuals to reinforce learning.
One of training participants said: “I’ve worked as a nurse for over a decade, but this is the first time I’ve received in-depth training on oral health, now I feel more confident helping my patients prevent dental problems before they become serious.”
The session also allowed participants to share real-life experiences and challenges encountered in community settings, fostering peer learning and practical dialogue.
The event concluded with a certificate awarding ceremony, where each nurse received a certificate recognizing their participation and commitment to improving oral health in their respective communities. Representatives from OHSO and Colgate-Palmolive delivered inspiring closing remarks, encouraging nurses to serve as oral health ambassadors in their health centers.
“We are proud to support this vital initiative that aligns with Rwanda’s National Oral Health Strategic Plan,” said Nyasudi Eugene, a representative of Colgate-Palmolive. “Promoting oral health at the grassroots level is key to ensuring better general health outcomes for all.”
To ensure the training translates into long-term impact, OHSO will conduct more trainings as well as follow-up assessments in the coming months. Nurses will be monitored to track how they integrate oral health education into their day-to-day service delivery. In addition, OHSO plans to expand the program to more districts and explore partnerships with additional health institutions.
This initiative demonstrates the power of collaborative health promotion and highlights how preventive education can transform communities. OHSO extends its gratitude to Masaka Hospital, the Ministry of Health, and Colgate-Palmolive for their unwavering support.
As Rwanda continues to move toward universal health coverage, ensuring that oral health is not left behind is not just a goal it is a necessity.
Photos from the training event are available in our gallery.
