Based in Kigali, Rwanda, Richard Bishumba engages directly with healthtech innovators, startup founders, and ecosystem partners across Africa, helping to amplify solutions that improve community health through his work as Strategic Partnerships Lead at JHPIEGO. Through partnerships, collaborative spaces, and strategic engagement, he ensures that local voices shape the future of digital health on the continent.

Outside of his current role, Richard served as a Health Columnist for The New Times (Rwanda), using storytelling to raise awareness of public health issues and influence national healthcare conversations. He also led community outreach as Campaigns Manager for Rwanda Cancer Relief, mobilizing volunteers, organizing awareness walks, and advocating for improved cancer care in underserved communities.

In his current position at JHPIEGO, Richard co-led the strategy and execution of the 2025 HealthTech Policy Summit in Ethiopia, convening government, innovators, and partners to shape Africa’s digital health future. He is also excited about activating the co-working space at Norrsken House Kigali, transforming it into a vibrant hub connecting healthtech startups with mentors, funders, and policymakers.

Richard is committed to advancing health equity by creating inclusive platforms that elevate African-led solutions, guided by the belief expressed by Paul Farmer that “The idea that some lives matter less is the root of all that is wrong with the world.” This inspires him to ensure Africa is not left behind in the digital health revolution.