Rwanda secures 2028 Africa Society for Blood Transfusion Congress after outperforming regional competitors in bid

Rwanda beats Nigeria and Ethiopia to host the 13th AfSBT Congress in 2028, bringing 1,000 global blood transfusion experts to Kigali for medical innovation.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 26, 2026, 8:45 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from The New Times

Kigali Emerges Victorious in Competitive Continental Hosting Bid

Rwanda has successfully secured the hosting rights for the 13th Africa Society for Blood Transfusion (AfSBT) Congress, scheduled for 2028. The decision was finalized during the 12th edition of the congress in Namibia, where Rwanda’s proposal outperformed rival bids from Ethiopia and Nigeria. This selection marks a significant diplomatic and professional win for the country, positioning it as a preferred destination for high-level scientific and medical discourse on the continent.

Strategic Platform for Transfusion Medicine and Research Exchange

The biennial congress serves as a premier gathering for a diverse group of stakeholders, including medical doctors, specialized researchers, and blood service administrators. By hosting this event, Rwanda provides a stage for African nations to synchronize their blood management protocols and share breakthroughs in hematology. The forum is designed to foster a collaborative environment where practitioners can address the unique challenges facing blood safety and supply chains across various African jurisdictions.

Anticipated Economic and Professional Impact of Global Delegates

Approximately 1,000 delegates, ranging from international policymakers to frontline medical practitioners, are expected to descend on the capital for the 2028 event. The scale of the congress suggests a significant boost for the local hospitality and tourism sectors, but the primary value lies in the professional networking opportunities it affords. For Rwanda, the return of this meeting, which it last hosted a decade ago in 2016, reflects a sustained trajectory of growth in its capacity to manage large-scale international medical conventions.