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Caritas Rwanda, in partnership with Plan International Rwanda, successfully convened validation meetings in the districts of Gatsibo (16/06), Bugesera (17/06), and Nyaruguru (18/06), to review and validate the findings of the ECD Project Impact Assessment covering the implementation period from 2022 to 2025.

The meetings brought together district authorities, representatives from the National Child Development Agency (NCDA), development partners, ECD practitioners, project staff, caregivers, and community representatives. The objective was to reflect on the project’s achievements, discuss lessons learned, and identify priorities for strengthening Early Childhood Development services in the target districts.

Speaking at the validation meetings, Christine Kayitesi, ECD Project Coordinator, noted that the assessment was undertaken to evaluate the impact of the ECD Project after three years of implementation. Specifically, it sought to determine the extent to which the project had contributed to children’s development, strengthened caregivers’ capacities, and aligned with Rwanda’s National Strategy for Transformation (NST2). She emphasized that the findings would help the project and stakeholders sustain the gains achieved while addressing identified gaps to maximize future impact.

 

Significant progress across ECD pillars

The impact assessment findings demonstrate the positive contribution of Home-Based ECDs to children’s holistic development across the three districts.

Gatsibo and Bugesera recorded exceptional performance in curriculum and school readiness, nutrition, and caregiver quality, achieving scores of 100 % in several indicators. Nyaruguru also demonstrated strong results, particularly in caregiver quality and parenting education (100 %), nutrition (93.3 %), and health (83.3 %).

Across all districts, the assessment confirmed improvements in parenting practices, child nutrition, health-seeking behaviours, community participation, and the quality of care provided to young children. Increased engagement of parents, including fathers, emerged as one of the project’s notable achievements.

The findings further show that project-supported HBECDs performed above national averages across most ECD pillars, highlighting the effectiveness of community-based approaches in promoting child wellbeing and development. Hereafter the details on the following infographic:

Priorities for Sustaining Impact

While acknowledging the project’s achievements, stakeholders identified key areas requiring continued investment to sustain and build upon the gains achieved.

Recommendations from the assessment include establishing a child outcome tracking system, strengthening caregiver support and retention mechanisms, increasing community financing through Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), upgrading caregiver qualifications in line with NCDA standards, and improving WASH and child protection infrastructure.

Participants also emphasized the importance of institutionalizing fathers’ clubs and expanding male engagement approaches to strengthen shared responsibility for child development.

During the meetings, local leaders requested that the assessment report be shared with them once finalized, so that its findings and recommendations can inform their efforts to promote Early Child Development.

Implemented by Caritas Rwanda with support from Plan International Rwanda, the ECD Project aimed to improve the wellbeing and holistic development of young children through Home-Based Early Childhood Development (HBECD). The project focuses on the six pillars of ECD: (1) early learning and school readiness, (2) health, (3) nutrition, (4) child protection and inclusiveness, (5) water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and (6) parenting education.

On 4 and 5 June 2026, Caritas Rwanda staff and nine service providers gathered at the Savana Hotel to review the achievements of the first five months of the PATHs Project (Livelihoods & Adult Education).

The review confirmed that all planned activities were successfully implemented. Participants also developed a three-month action plan aligned with the evolving needs of evacuees and host communities.

Beginning this June, Caritas Rwanda will continue existing skills-training programs while introducing new vocational courses in Welding, Plumbing, Culinary Arts, and Machine Knitting at ETM Gashora.

As an innovative initiative, 12 high-performing participants from Cohort I, comprising both evacuees and host community members who completed Hairdressing and Tailoring training, have been selected to receive support in launching Income-Generating Activities (IGAs). This support will enable them to put their newly acquired skills into practice, strengthen self-reliance, and improve their livelihoods while awaiting resettlement.

These small businesses will not only empower the selected participants but also serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for others to pursue economic independence and resilience.

Caritas Rwanda, in collaboration with the Nyamasheke, Karongi, and Rutsiro districts, on May 30, 2026 conducted malaria prevention activities in the sectors most affected by malaria namely Nyabitekeri, Mubuga, and Musasa.

In Nyabitekeri Sector, Muyange Cell, Nyamasheke District, a community awareness campaign was organized through health messages, drama, and poems performed by Community Health Workers. Residents were reminded of key malaria prevention measures and encouraged to seek early and appropriate treatment when experiencing symptoms. During the event, 11 people with high fever were tested for malaria, and one person who tested positive received immediate treatment on site. This activity was carried out in collaboration with local authorities from the district (from village to district level), as well as security organs.

A special community work activity (Umuganda) aimed at malaria prevention was also conducted in Rubyiro Village, Murangara Cell, Mubuga Sector, Karongi District. During the activity, nine large water-filled pits that had previously been used for brick making were filled in, to eliminate mosquito breeding sites.

Similarly, a community work activity was organized in Kabuga Village, Nyarubuye Cell, Musasa Sector, Rutsiro District, where 12 large water-filled pits left behind by mining activities were filled in to prevent mosquito breeding.

Following the Umuganda activities, community members were sensitized on malaria prevention measures and reminded not to become complacent simply because their homes had been sprayed with insecticide to control mosquitoes that transmit malaria. The event was attended by representatives from security organs, sector, cell, and village authorities.

These activities reflect the continued commitment of Caritas Rwanda and local authorities to reducing malaria transmission and promoting healthier communities through prevention, early diagnosis, and collective action.

From 12 to 14 May 2026, Caritas Rwanda, through its Early Childhood Development (ECD) Project supported by Plan International Rwanda, distributed nutritious porridge flour made of Sorghum, Soja and Maize (SOSOMA) and sugar to Home-Based ECDs (HBECDs) and School-Based ECDs (SBECDs) in Bugesera, Gatsibo, and Nyaruguru districts.

The support aims to improve children’s nutrition and learning conditions in ECD by supplementing the contributions already provided by parents and caregivers. In Nyaruguru District, Caritas Rwanda provided support to HBECDs and SBECDs on May 12, 2026. The assistance responded to requests from schools for nutritious porridge for nursery children, particularly during learning hours when many children become hungry before regular meal times. In total 3,225 kg of SOSOMA flour and 1,505 kg of sugar were distributed across the district.

In Bugesera District, the distribution took place on May 13, 2026 in Ngeruka and Kamabuye sectors, benefiting 49 ECD with 3,675 kg of porridge flour and 1,715 kg of sugar. The activity brought together representatives from the district and sector authorities, Plan International Rwanda, Caritas Rwanda, and other partners. ECD caregivers were encouraged to use the support responsibly, maintain hygiene in ECDs, and continue working closely with parents to ensure children’s wellbeing.

In Gatsibo District, the distribution exercise was conducted on May 14, 2026 in Kabarore, Kiziguro, Murambi, and Rwimbogo sectors, where 61 ECD received 4,575 kg of porridge flour and 2,135 kg of sugar. ECD caregivers were reminded to ensure proper management of the support and to strengthen collaboration with parents so that children continue receiving adequate nutrition and care for the children.

Through this initiative, Caritas Rwanda and Plan International Rwanda continue to promote child nutrition, early learning, and the wellbeing of children attending ECDs in the supported districts.

Heads of Social Welfare Department from Caritas Rwanda and the 10 diocesan Caritas met at Saint Paul Centre in Kigali on May 8, 2026, for a meeting aimed at strengthening collaboration and reinforcing efforts to support the vulnerable.

In his opening remarks, the Secretary General of Caritas Rwanda, Father Oscar Kagimbura, reminded participants that the mission of Caritas is rooted in putting the Gospel into action. “We strive to put the Gospel into practice so that it does not remain only in words, but is reflected in concrete actions, especially toward the vulnerable, the marginalized, and people facing different challenges. Our goal is to assist them regain the dignity that God bestowed upon them,” he said.

Father Oscar Kagimbura also highlighted the importance of the Social Welfare Department within the mission of Caritas, encouraging participants to always remember that this department is the heart of Caritas.

He further called on participants to intensify awareness efforts so that more people become committed to supporting vulnerable communities. “We are not alone in caring for vulnerable people. Religious congregations, associations, non-governmental organizations, Christian communities, and many others are also involved in this mission. I encourage you to continue mobilizing more people to care for the vulnerable and to nurture the spirit of serving others,” he added.

During the meeting, participants reviewed the achievements made in 2025 and discussed the challenges encountered, as well as strategies to strengthen future interventions.

Through discussions and experience-sharing sessions, participants also reflected on strategies to prepare and mobilize communities for the 2026 Charity Month. Several ideas were proposed to improve fundraising efforts and encourage broader participation.

Another key topic discussed was the revitalization of the Caritas family’s database. Participants stressed that improving information management is essential for enhancing organizational effectiveness and ensuring that support activities reach their intended goals.

Participants also discussed ways to promote the Caritas spirit, particularly through traditional media, digital platforms, and community outreach visits to places where people gather or in their communities.

At the end of the meeting, participants discussed preparations for the World Day of the Poor, celebrated in November, and the Day of Persons with Disabilities, observed in December. The leaders emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to support vulnerable people in line with the Holy Father’s message promoting integral human development, listening, and synodality.

In a spirit of thanksgiving, reflection, and appreciation for the dignity of work, Caritas Rwanda celebrated the Labor Day at Centre Missionnaire Lavigerie Kigali on May 1, 2026.

The day started with the celebration of Holy Mass. In his sermon, Father Oscar Kagimbura, Secretary General of Caritas Rwanda stated that Saint Joseph is celebrated on the Labor Day because he is the role modal of workers / employees. As he stated, Saint Joseph honored his profession/job which was considered as cheap while keeping raising the son of God (Jesus).

Father Oscar invited all employees to accomplish with zeal their responsibilities but also doing well whatever they do even small chores at home. During the Mass, Caritas Rwanda staff thanked God for the blessing of jobs they are doing, but also prayed for unemployed people.

After the Holy Mass, the Employees Representative Committee was presented to new staff, followed by a presentation on the responsibilities of the Health and Safety Committee, including promoting overall health and mental well-being; ensuring appropriate conditions and support for employees to work in a safe and healthy environment; preparing for emergency situations; and protecting confidential information.

The participants also benefited from presentations on (i) promoting Caritas Spirit within the Family and beyond, (ii) Overview on Caritas Rwanda safeguarding policy and (iii) introduction to HR Policy.

The ceremony concluded with the awarding of certificates to employees marking 5, 10, and 15 years of service at Caritas Rwanda, as well as the recognition of Mr. Constantin Shyaka as the Outstanding Employee of the Year 2025.

On Thursday, April 30, 2026, Caritas Rwanda and its affiliated institutions, Librairie Caritas Ltd and Centenary House Ltd, paid tribute to the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994, including former colleagues, at the Nyanza Genocide Memorial.

The commemoration included reflections on the history of the genocide against the Tutsi, particularly focusing on the history of the area where the Nyanza Genocide Memorial is located, testimonies, and wreath-laying in remembrance of the victims.

In addition, participants visited different sections of the memorial while receiving explanations about its history and significance.

In the opening prayer, Fr. Oscar Kagimbura, Secretary General of Caritas Rwanda, prayed for the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi, emphasizing that remembering them is an act of dignity and humanity, even though it is emotionally painful. He offered special prayers for former Caritas Rwanda employees who were killed during the genocide.

Ms. Huss Monique, Deputy Executive Secretary of the Kicukiro District, commended Caritas Rwanda for organizing an event that helps educate young people about the country’s history. “We thank Caritas for organizing this event so that the young employees can learn about our history, while older generations play their role in teaching them and strengthening the spirit of unity and resilience among Rwandans, so that genocide never happens again.”, she said.

Representing Ibuka, Ahishakiye Naphtal also thanked Caritas Rwanda for organizing the commemoration in honor of more than one million innocent victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, including over 105,000 victims resting at Nyanza Genicide Memorial, while also paying tribute to its former employees. He added that it is important to appreciate the Rwanda Government for creating the opportunity and environment that allow Rwandans to remember together.

Fr. Vedaste Kayisabe, Secretary General of the Episcopal Conference of Rwanda and guest of honor, recalled that Caritas Rwanda was founded in 1959 under the name Secours Catholique Rwandais during a difficult historical period that later culminated in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, with the mission of helping people in distress. He emphasized that during this commemoration period, everyone should strive for three important values: “(i) remembering, (ii) promoting unity by working together to build the nation, the Church, and humanity, and (iii) rebuilding ourselves through solidarity and mutual support.”

The former Caritas Rwanda employees who were killed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are: Rugangura Alphonse, Niyibizi Léopold, Beneyezu Eugène, Karangwa Claver, Bunangwa Eugène, Seromba Raphaël, and Nyirababili Joséphine.

 

In collaboration with Caritas Kabgayi, Caritas Rwanda conducted an awareness session on April 29, 2026, to promote the Caritas Spirit at Saint Thomas Aquinas Major Seminary of Kabgayi.

The session included a presentation on the social doctrine of the Church, the history of Caritas, and the importance of fostering a culture of compassion and service to the most vulnerable, delivered by Sister Gaudiose Nyiraneza, in charge of Awareness and Emergency Response in the Social Welfare Department of Caritas Rwanda.

Following the above presentation, Jean Népomuscène Hakizimana, Head of the Social Welfare Department at Caritas Kabgayi, explained how the Charity Month initiative is implemented and how dioceses have been mobilizing contributions since 2019.

Jean Népomuscène also highlighted the message of Pope Francis on the role of Caritas in the Church’s mission, shared during his meeting with leaders of Caritas Internationalis on May 16, 2023. The Pope emphasized that Caritas is essential to the life of the Church, stating that without Caritas, the Church itself would not exist, underscoring the inseparable bond between Caritas and the Church.

A message seminarians will carry forward

After expressing gratitude to the delegations from Caritas Rwanda and Caritas Kabgayi, Father Claudien Mutuyimana, Rector of Kabgayi Major Seminary, affirmed that the seminarians would put the message into practice: “The poor belong to God, and God entrusts them to us so that we may serve Him through them and show them God’s love through charity acts, as Christ taught us. If we truly desire to belong to Him, we must place the poor at the center. As Pope Benedict XVI said, helping the poor means giving them what is rightfully theirs: it is restoring the dignity that God bestowed upon them.” 

During an interview with Caritas Rwanda, some seminarians shared that they already engage in charity acts among themselves. During Lent and Advent, they organize collections, make personal sacrifices, and extend support to vulnerable people outside the seminary. Their outreach particularly benefits patients at Kabgayi Hospital, prisoners at Muhanga Correctional Facility, and communities surrounding the seminary. They also regularly participate in blood donation activities.

Such awareness initiatives help nurturing future Caritas leaders committed to human dignity, social justice, and service to others.

It is worth noting that a similar awareness session was previously conducted at Saint Joseph Major Seminary of Rutongo on April 22, 2026.

As part of inspiring Caritas Spirit and serving the most vulnerable, Caritas Rwanda conducted awareness session at Saint Joseph Rutongo Major Seminary, on April 22, 2026.

In her presentation, Sister Gaudiose Nyiraneza, in charge of Animation and Training within the Social Welfare Department at Caritas Rwanda, gave an overview of the history of Caritas both globally and nationally. She also delivered a message encouraging everyone to embrace a spirit of dedication to the most vulnerable, which is the very essence of Caritas. As she explained, Caritas means love of neighbour.

Sister Gaudiose also explained the concept of the Month of Charity (August), established by the Catholic Bishops of Rwanda in 1997. During this month, Christians and people of goodwill contribute through Small Christian Communities and other Caritas structures. This initiative aims to mobilize resources to support victims of disasters, both in Rwanda and abroad (Caritas Nyarwanda).

Following the presentation, the seminarians asked several questions to better understand the mission of Caritas. Some questions focused on other sources of funding for Caritas Rwanda, beyond contributions from Christians and other people of goodwill. They were informed that while these groups are the prime partners of Caritas, Caritas Rwanda also has income-generating activities that can serv when needed.

The seminarians also raised question about the selection criteria for vulnerable children to benefit from educational support, as some are unable to continue their studies. Sister Gaudiose explained that this requires advocacy starting from Small Christian Communities, followed by case analysis and escalation to parish and diocesan Caritas structures, so that those in need can receive assistance.

Father Marc Nizeyimana, Rector of the Saint Joseph Grand Seminary of Rutongo, thanked Caritas for the knowledge shared with the seminarians. He emphasized the importance of the Social Doctrine of the Church which they will continue to study, especially in relation to the charity dimension, described by Pope Francis as the heart of the Church.

The seminarians also shared with Caritas Rwanda that charity acts are already part of their daily lives (especially among them), reflecting a strong foundation for nurturing the Caritas spirit.

Caritas Rwanda organizes such awareness sessions in major seminaries and universities, in line with the recommendations of the Catholic Bishops of Rwanda. Diocesan Caritas structures conduct similar activities in secondary and primary schools.

A total of 24 field agents from the Gera Ku Ntego Youth Project operating in Rwamagana and Kayonza districts have officially graduated as Private Service Providers (PSPs), marking a significant milestone in their journey toward entrepreneurship. This follows a year of intensive training, mentorship, and practical experience in supporting savings and internal lending communities (SILC), after which they successfully passed both theoretical and practical assessments.

The graduation ceremonies took place on March 25 and 26, 2026, as part of the Gera Ku Ntego (GKN) Youth Project, funded by CRS and implemented by Caritas Kibungo in partnership with Caritas Rwanda across Rwamagana, Kayonza, and Ngoma districts.

Graduates shared inspiring testimonies of personal transformation and economic progress

Nzabandora Ildephonse, a PSP from Rwamagana District, explained that before joining the project, he was part of other savings groups but struggled to achieve tangible results due to a lack of clear goals. Through the Gera Ku Ntego Youth Project, he developed a business plan focused on pig farming. With support from his savings group, he built a pigsty (with Rwf 200,000), secured an additional loan of Rwf 1,000,000 (in SACCO), and successfully launched his business, which has since grown significantly.

Similarly, Dusabemariya Florentine from Kayonza District shared how she started poultry farming with just 20 chickens using a group loan. Today, her poultry has grown to 45 chickens, demonstrating steady progress and improved income.

These testimonies reflect strong confidence among the graduates, highlighting their optimism and belief that their future careers will be successful.

Recognition from partners and local authorities

During the ceremony in Rwamagana, Ms. Anathalie Mukankusi, representing CRS, commended the graduates for their dedication and achievements. She also expressed appreciation to Caritas Kibungo, Caritas Rwanda, and local authorities for their collaboration, emphasizing that although CRS provided funding, the successful implementation of the project relied heavily on local partnerships.

She noted that the graduates fully deserved their certification, having undergone a rigorous evaluation process that included written assessments, review of their field reports, and field visits to the savings groups they supported. All 24 candidates were found competent.

Ms. Mukankusi encouraged the new PSPs to remain committed and continue working hard to grow their businesses. She also called upon local leaders to facilitate connections between PSPs and community groups, while encouraging communities to fairly compensate the services provided by PSPs.

Representing Rwamagana District, Mr. Pierre Rutinduka praised Caritas Kibungo and its partners, noting that the trained youth represent a valuable asset for the district. In response to the request to support PSPs in accessing new groups, he affirmed that local authorities would take up this responsibility and ensure follow-up at the district level.

In Kayonza District, the ceremony was graced by Fr. Emmanuel Bamporineza, Deputy Secretary General of Caritas Rwanda, who served as the guest of honor. He expressed gratitude to CRS for funding the initiative and to local authorities for their role in ensuring effective implementation, starting from the identification of beneficiaries.

He also congratulated the graduates for their commitment and urged them to make productive use of the knowledge acquired: “The world is evolving rapidly. The gift you should give to Caritas and the Government should be reflected in how you apply the knowledge you gained, not keeping it idle, but using it to improve your own lives and benefit the communities you serve.”

Expanding impact

An additional 12 facilitators are expected to graduate on March 31, 2026, further expanding the network of PSPs supporting community-based financial systems.

Since October 2024, the Gera Ku Ntego Youth Project has supported 242 savings groups across the three districts, reaching 6,049 youth. Together, they have saved over RWF 101.7 million and accessed loans exceeding RWF 82.3 million (from October 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025).

Beyond group economic activities, these groups also engage in group service activities designed to inspire and encourage group members to give back to the community through collective action and social responsibility.