In a tweet he made Saturday, March 14, 2020, the president called for calm, focus and discipline, complying with safety guidelines that have been issued by the Ministry of Health.

“Rwanda has registered its first #COVID19 case. As emphasized by others, panic in this situation does not help. Focus and simple but effective measures are key to keeping each other and everyone safe,” he tweeted.

President Kagame also sent out a message of sympathy to the world where the virus has had ravaging effects. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, families and their loved ones. We wish strength to the health workers on the frontlines & quick recovery to all patients.

The Ministry of Health Saturday announced that one Indian citizen has been identified to be infected with coronavirus, having arrived in the country on 8 March from Mumbai.

In a statement the Ministry says: “The patient did not show any symptoms of the disease on arrival, but on 13 March was tested positive. The patient is receiving medical care, responding well and has been isolated from other patients."

The Ministry says its officials have traced d all the people and places the patient made contact with and carried out the necessary tests and measures to ensure the no other people have been affected and get the situation well contained.

“All people in Rwanda are requested to continue observing the precautionary measures issued by health officials and, especially, practice polished hygein, avoid crowds, wash hands regularly and share any information in case of suspicion on toll-free number 114"

President Paul Kagame has called on Rwandans not to panic because of the first coronavirus case that has been identified