Effectiveness of forensic medicine practices: Rwanda facing shortage of forensic pathologists

Forensic pathology has often been disregarded in both Western and non-Western countries, including the African nations. In this article, we highlight the shortage of forensic pathologists in Rwanda and make recommendations to encourage physicians to pursue the subspecialty of forensic pathology. Critically, we analysed issues and challenges related to the inadequate supply of forensic pathologists in the healthcare sector of Rwanda. The authors referred to scientific and legal literature from books, journals, national and international reports, and electronic sources on forensic pathology training and workforce. As a result, authors have identified several reasons for the shortage, including lack of exposure to forensic pathology, absence of a direct path for forensic pathology training, and insufficient funding for fellowships in forensic pathology. It is important to note that there is a global shortage of forensic pathologists, which hinders the effective practice of forensic medicine, including examinations and assessments of various types of deaths and incidents. This ultimately affects the administration of justice. However, it is hopeful that Rwanda's efforts in the field of forensic medicine will have a positive influence on other African nations in the coming years.