SOS Children's Villages Rwanda

05/04/2026

Strengthening Families: Rwanda’s journey towards community-based care

In Rwanda, a quiet but powerful transformation is unfolding. Across communities, children are being brought closer to the people who matter most in their lives their families. It is a journey rooted in resilience and shaped by a shared commitment to ensure that every child grows up surrounded by care, stability and meaningful relationships.

After the genocide against the Tutsi in 1994, thousands of children were separated from their families. Many were left without the support systems they needed to grow and thrive. At one point, more than 12,000 children were living in institutional care across Rwanda.

Recognising that this could not be a sustainable future for children or the nation, the Government of Rwanda took an important step forward. In 2012, it began implementing the UN Guidelines for the Alternative Care of Children, prioritising family-based care over institutional settings.

This vision took shape through the national initiative Tubarere mu Muryango, meaning “Let’s raise children in families.” Through this programme, thousands of children have been successfully reintegrated into family-based care, reconnecting them with relatives, communities and a renewed sense of belonging.

As part of this national effort, SOS Children’s Villages Rwanda partnered with the Government of Rwanda to support the transition. Through a Memorandum of Understanding, the organisation provides short-term alternative care for children and young people without parental care who require temporary support while long-term family solutions are identified.

In December 2025, SOS Children’s Villages Rwanda hosted a Child Care Reform Workshop, bringing together government representatives, child protection partners and other key stakeholders. The gathering offered a space to reflect on progress and strengthen collaboration.
Participants reaffirmed a shared commitment: every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing and supportive family environment.

A shift toward stronger communities

For many years, SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda has supported children and young people without parental care or at risk of losing it. Since 2021, the organisation has been accelerating an important transition moving away from institutional care toward community-based support that strengthens families and prevents separation.

This shift reflects a growing understanding, when families and communities are supported, children are more likely to grow up in stable environments where they feel safe, valued and connected.c

“Our intervention programme is evolving from institutional care towards supporting children within their communities,” explains Jean Bosco Kwizera, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Rwanda during all staff meeting.

“Our goal is to ensure that children grow up close to their relatives, friends and the people who are part of their everyday lives. When children grow up connected to their communities, they are better prepared to face the future.” He said.

Staff embracing the transition

For many employees who dedicated years to residential care, the transition initially brought uncertainty. Yet through open dialogue and shared reflection, a renewed sense of purpose emerged.

“Our approach may evolve, but our mission remains the same. Together, we stand beside children and young people without parental care or at risk of losing it, ensuring they grow up with the bonds they need to thrive.” says Jean Bosco Kwizera in a meeting with caregivers across all program location.

He added, “This transition is not about employees losing their roles,” the National Director emphasised. “It is about empowering them and repositioning their skills where they are most needed so that, together, we can continue supporting the wellbeing of children and young people.”

“We believe this transformation reflects the realities children face today. Supporting families and communities’ builds resilience and confidence among children and young people.” says Gaspard Twambazimana, Sponsorship Manager.

Caregivers who have worked closely with children for many years also see the value of the shift.
“We embrace the change and are ready to move forward. Our commitment to serve children who have lost parental care remains strong.” says Fortune Mukayiranga, caregiver

For Priscile Gahongayire, also a caregiver, the transition came with mixed emotions at first.
“There was uncertainty. But after open conversations with leadership, hope returned. We realised that our shared goal remains the same ensuring the wellbeing of children who need support.” she recalls

George Gakuba, Head of Operations and Social Business, emphasises the importance of adapting to today’s realities.

“Family Like care model has played an important role in the past, but we must also recognise its limitations in the current context. Our goal is to align with the broader direction of SOS Children’s Villages, reaching more children and young people through community-based approaches.” George says.

Edouard Mutabazi, Head of Gikongoro Programme Location, working in communities offers a powerful opportunity to create lasting change.

“When we empower children and young people, we also empower their families and the communities around them,” he explains. ” He stated.

He added “Instead of only responding after children have already ended up on the streets or been separated from their families, we must address the problems that lead to those situations in the first place. By supporting families early and strengthening community systems, we can help ensure that children grow up in safe and supportive environments.”

Across Rwanda, this transformation represents more than a programme shift. It reflects a broader vision for the future one where families are stronger, communities are more connected and children grow up surrounded by the care and relationships they need.

01/04/2026

Green Growth Nyagatare: 32 Companies unite to boost youth employment

In a strong step toward tackling youth unemployment, SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda, through the Green Growth Project brought together 32 private companies in Nyagatare District to share insights and collaborate on creating employment opportunities for young people.

The meeting created a platform where private sector actors, district officials and development partners could discuss practical ways to prepare young people for the labour market and support them in building sustainable careers.

The Green Growth Project, funded by SOS Children’s Villages in Canada and the Government of Canada through Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada aims to equip 5,400 young people including young people with disabilities with knowledge, skills and opportunities to improve their livelihoods.

Frank Shyaka, the Green Growth Project Coordinator, highlighted the importance of collaboration in ensuring long-term impact.

“Working closely with district authorities is essential for achieving our goals and ensuring sustainability. We also count on the private sector to help young people access opportunities that allow them to grow their careers and build a better future,” he said.

Local authorities also welcomed the initiative. Eugenie Mukabarere, the start-up development officer from Nyagatare District emphasized that partnerships like this are crucial in addressing youth unemployment.

“Youth unemployment is a concern for everyone in our district. Having a partner like SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda working with us on a project that supports 1,080 young people is a golden opportunity. Together, we can strengthen the capacity of our young people and help them reach their full potential,” she noted.

Addressing the gap in hands-on skills among young people

Young people unemployment remains a pressing challenge in many communities, particularly in districts with rapidly growing young populations. Emmanuel Ntagwabira, the General Manager of Diplomate Hotel, emphasized that while many young people graduate from educational institutions every year, their training often remains largely theoretical.

“We offer job opportunities to young people, but the pertinent issue is that many of them lack hands-on skills,” he explained. “Most graduates are strong in theory, yet they are reluctant to engage in further practical training because they believe their education already prepared them for the job market.”

According to Ntagwabira, this gap between academic knowledge and practical experience is affecting both employers and young job seekers. Businesses are eager to recruit capable staff, yet many applicants struggle to demonstrate the skills required for day-to-day work.

“Our recommendation to the Green Growth Project is to focus on supporting young people with practical training. Hands-on skills are what truly prepare them for employment,” he added.

Telesphore Habera, the owner of Demi-Sheraton Hotel, commended SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda and the Green Growth Project for recognizing the district’s potential and the urgent need to support youth employment.

“Our district has many young people who are unemployed,” Habera said. “From my experience, when we advertise just one position, we can receive between 500 and 600 applications, and most of them are from young people.”

Safeguarding young people in employment

The Interim Head of Child Safeguarding and Child Protection, Isimbi Deborah Abieilah, emphasised that when young people with limited knowledge are employed, they should be guided and empowered not embarrassed or exploited.

“The safety and rights of children and young people remain a top priority in all programmes implemented by SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda through the Green Project.
Our role is to empower them with the skills and confidence they need to perform their duties and build a better future.” She added.

Funded by the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada, the five-year project promotes youth employment and entrepreneurship in green economy sectors across Kayonza, Nyagatare, Gisagara, Gasabo, and Bugesera, supporting both rural and peri-urban communities.

28/03/2026

A mother’s legacy: Adrolata honours women on International Women’s Day

At just 28 years old, Adrolata stood in the shadow of one of Rwanda’s darkest moments in history. At a time when many lives were disrupted and families torn apart, she chose a path rooted in care, stability and unwavering commitment to children and young people who had lost parental care or were at risk of losing it.

On 27th March 2026, during the International Women’s Day celebration at the Kigali Programme Location, Adrolata shared her journey one shaped by resilience, purpose and deep human connection.

For 32 years, she served as an SOS caregiver at SOS Children’s Village in Gikongoro. In that time, she supported and guided more than 100 children, walking alongside them as they grew into independent adults. For her, caregiving was never just a role it was a lifelong commitment to helping each child build the bonds they need to thrive.

Her pride is not found in numbers but in the lives, she has witnessed transform. She spoke of the joy of seeing children she once cared for now leading their own lives with confidence and purpose.

“I have taken care of many children and watched them grow. Seeing who they have become brings me happiness. I am proud because I contributed to their journey and to the future of our nation.”

Adrolata believes that listening is at the heart of caregiving. By creating space for children to share their thoughts and ideas, she helped them build confidence and a sense of belonging.

“Many of the children I cared for are doing well today because I listened to them, encouraged them, and gave them the freedom to express themselves. That made all the difference.”

Jean Bosco Kwizera, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda, highlighted the essential role women play in strengthening families and communities.

“SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda supports around 110,000 participants, many of whom are women leading their families. Their resilience and dedication are key to the well-being of children.”

He added, “When you support women, you support entire families. Women consistently strive for the well-being of their children and their communities.”

Cissy Uwamahoro, Head of Finance and Gender Focal Person at SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda, recognised the progress made in Rwanda towards gender equality, noting the importance of policies that ensure equal rights and opportunities for women in family life and education.

“Women are capable of competing and excelling in every field. I remember when I was in school, I was among the top students and later earned a scholarship to pursue my studies abroad. From that experience, I strongly believe that women have the ability, determinationand talent to deliver and succeed.”

Aline Umutoni, Director General of Family Promotion and Child Protection at the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, acknowledged the continued efforts needed to challenge social norms that limit women’s potential.

She commended SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda for creating spaces that celebrate and elevate the role of women, pointing to the event itself as a reflection of that commitment.

As the celebration ended, one message remained clear: the strength of women like Adrolata shapes not only individual lives, but entire communities.

Each year, International Women’s Day at SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda is more than a celebration it is a moment to recognise the everyday impact of women, to reflect on progress and to reaffirm a shared commitment to ensuring that every child and young person grows up with the care, relationships and support they need to thrive.

20/03/2026

Green Growth: Businesses join hands to empower young people

In Gisagara District, a new collaboration between the private sector and community partners is opening doors for young people eager to build a better future.

SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda through the Green Growth Project funded by SOS Children’s Villages in Canada and the Government of Canada through Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada , convened a consultative meeting with private sector employers. The main purpose is connecting young people with real opportunities for employment and professional internships.

A recent gender sensitive labour market assessment conducted in the five districts where the Green Growth Project will operate revealed the reality many young people face when entering Rwanda’s labour market.

The findings show that 83% of young people are engaged in informal employment, while 20% remain unemployed, reflecting limited opportunities particularly for young women and young people with disabilities.

Jean Bosco Ngabonzima, Director of the Business Development Unit in Gisagara District, emphasised the scale of the issue.

He said, “The Ministry of Public Service and Labour conducted research in Gisagara District which showed that more than 42,000 people are unemployed, most of them young people.
The private sector has an important role to play in the implementation of this project by providing job placements and internship opportunities for young people.”

Octave Shyaka, the Green Growth Project Manager, highlighted the project’s ambition to empower youth across five districts: Kayonza, Nyagatare, Gisagara, Gasabo, and Bugesera.

“We have already identified 1,032 young people, including young people with disabilities, from three sectors Muganza, Musha, and Save. Our goal is to strengthen their practical skills through TVET schools. This is where collaboration with the private sector becomes essential.” He stated.
He added that by linking vocational training with real workplace experience, the project aims to help young people transition from learning to employment.

Schools providing technical and vocational training are already seeing the impact of hands-on education.

Jackson Sehigiri, Headteacher of Musha Technical Secondary School, believes practical skills are key to community development.

“Vocational skills are one of the most effective ways to eradicate poverty in communities. When young people gain practical skills, they are better prepared to find jobs or start their own projects. We have already seen many success stories where students complete major projects through their training.” Jackson said.

Child safeguarding at the centre of everything

During the meeting, the Interim Head of Child Safeguarding and Child Protection Isimbi Deborah Abieilah reminded participants that the safety and rights of children and young people remain a top priority in all programmes implemented by SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda.

As a childcare organisation, the federation ensures that all partners uphold strong safeguarding standards.

“We always respect the rights of every child and young person. It is essential that all partners create safe environments and avoid any form of abuse.”

Through the Green Growth Project, SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda will continue working closely with district authorities, TVET schools, and private sector partners to create meaningful pathways into employment.

By combining skills development, internships and strong partnerships, the initiative aims to ensure that young people gain the confidence, experience, and opportunities they need to thrive and contribute to a greener more inclusive future.

18/03/2026

Young people at risk: 83% trapped in informal work, 20% unemployed

A recent gender sensitive labour market assessment has revealed the challenges many young people face when trying to enter Rwanda’s labour market. According to the research findings, 83% of young people are trapped in informal employment, while 20% remain unemployed, highlighting the limited opportunities available for young people mostly young women and young people with disabilities.

To address these challenges, SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda, through the Green Growth Empowering Young people for a Green Future project, convened a validation meeting bringing together key stakeholders. The project is funded by SOS Children's Villages Canada and Government of Canada through Canada’s International Development – Global Affairs Canada .

The meeting brought together representatives from Government institutions including the Rwanda TVET Board, Gender Monitoring Office, National Council of Persons with Disabilities, youth representatives and private sector partners.

The purpose of the assessment is to better understand the barriers young people face to access the labour market and to identify available market opportunities to offer jobs in Rwanda’s emerging green economy.

Equipping young people with skills for the future

Speaking during the meeting, Kalenzi Bosco, Head of Projects at SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda, emphasised that the green growth project aims to equip young people particularly young women with practical skills that will help to enter to the labour market.

“Young people, including young women and young people with disabilities are still struggling to access decent opportunities in the labour market. The Green Growth project aims to help close these gaps in collaboration with government efforts,” Kalenzi said.

He added that collaboration with district authorities will be essential to achieving the project’s goals.

“District officials are key implementers at the local level, and working closely with them will ensure that the project responds to the real needs of young people in the communities we serve,” he explained.

Research highlights labour market barriers

The labour market assessment was conducted by Teddy Kaberuka, Consultant in Research and Policy who presented the key findings during the validation meeting.

Based on desk reviews and field analysis across the five target districts, the research shows that a large proportion of young people remain in informal work with limited job security and income stability, while unemployment continues to affect many young people particularly women.

“We conducted research across the five districts where the Green Growth project will be implemented. Our findings show that women represent a significant share of unemployed young people, while many young people with disabilities have had limited opportunities to access education, including TVET training,” Teddy explained.

He added that limited access to practical skills and entrepreneurship support remains one of the major barriers preventing young people from building sustainable livelihoods.

“We have identified several challenges affecting young people’s development, including limited access to practical skills. Our focus will be on strengthening their skills and supporting them to start small businesses. This will help young people become more self-reliant and improve their livelihoods,” she said.

Supporting young people through green economic opportunities
The Green Growth Empowering young people for a Green Future project is a five-year initiative funded by the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and implemented by SOS Children’s Villages Rwanda.

The project represents one of the organisation’s major initiatives aimed at strengthening youth economic empowerment and promoting employment and entrepreneurship in green economy sectors.

Implementation will take place across **five districts Kayonza, Nyagatare, Gisagara, Gasabo and Bugesera covering both rural agricultural communities and rapidly urbanising peri-urban areas.

This diversity will allow the project to test and scale solutions tailored to different local realities.
The primary beneficiaries are economically disadvantaged young people aged 16–30, with particular attention given to young women, young people with disabilities, teenage mothers and other young people in situations of vulnerability.

Through skills development, entrepreneurship support and partnerships with local stakeholders, the project aims to equip young people with the knowledge, opportunities and support networks they need to build sustainable livelihoods and contribute to Rwanda’s green economic transformation.

11/03/2026

Advancing care: Kabeja stands strong for every child

At 44, Gilbert Kabeja is raising ten children seven biological children and three foster children. But for him, caring for children is more than a responsibility at home; it is a commitment to his entire community.

Having experienced life without parental care himself, Gilbert understands what it means for children and young people to grow up without the support they need.

Gilbert lost his parents at a very young age and became the head of his household while still a child. To take care of his siblings, he made a difficult decision.

“I had to drop out of school so I could take care of my brothers and sisters,” he recalls. “We had no means to support ourselves, but our neighbours helped us until we reached adulthood.”

This is one of the IZU who is attending training on Mental Health organized by Seuka Project.

To read the story click the link below;

At 44, Gilbert Kabeja is raising ten children seven biological children and three foster children. But for him, caring for children is more than a responsibility at home; it is a commitment to his entire community.

05/03/2026

At just eight years old, Jeannette lost parental care. School became uncertain. Stability felt out of reach.

Today, at 16, she is back in class stronger, more confident, and thriving.
Through the Kura Umenye remedial learning project, supported by SOS Children's Villages Rwanda, Jeannette received academic support, mental health and psychosocial support and guidance on adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights.

Her grades improved from 46% to 71%, but even more importantly, she regained belief in herself. “The world has many challenges,” Jeannette says. “Our role is to find ways to overcome them.”

When children and young people without parental care or at risk of losing it receive the right support, they can rebuild trust, restore hope and move forward with confidence.

To read the story, click the link below

https://www.sos-rwanda.org/news/latest-news/jeannette%E2%80%99s-second-chance-through-kura-umenye

16/02/2026

Chantal and Judith strengthen their wellbeing through teamwork

Chantal Tuyizere and Judith both 21 share more than a workspace. They share determination, resilience and a vision for independent adulthood. Both young women are Deaf and communicate through sign language. Today, they run a small tailoring business from a rented workspace at Karangazi Sector, Nyagatare District which quietly transforming their future together.

Growing up, both Chantal and Judith faced significant barriers. Judith was raised in a family experiencing severe financial hardship. After her father’s death in 2022, the situation became even more difficult. With six children to support and limited income, meeting basic needs was a daily struggle.

“There was barely enough food,” she shared. “Most of my siblings had to leave school. We had no hope for the future.”Judith herself stayed at home for years, helping her parents while her siblings attended school. Opportunities felt out of reach.

Chantal’s journey was also marked by hardship. At the age of seven, she became ill and lost her hearing and speech. During this time, her family faced serious economic challenges. Although her parents did their best to support her, she experienced exclusion at school. She recalls a painful moment when a teacher told her he could not teach a Deaf child. After that, she left school.

For many years, Chantal remained at home with limited opportunities to participate in community life.“People used to mock me,” she explained through signs. “They would say, ‘Look at that deaf girl.’ I felt excluded.”

Both young women experienced stigma and neglect in their community because of their disability. Yet their story did not end there.

Last year, both Chantal and Judith joined an European Union in Rwanda project implemented by SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda. Through the project, they enrolled in a six-month intensive tailoring training.

“The day I started learning tailoring was the day my life changed It was something I had always dreamed of,” Judith said.

For Chantal, the training meant more than learning a skill. It offered connection, purpose, and renewed confidence. It opened doors that had long felt closed.After completing the training, both young women received tailoring kits, including sewing machines and essential materials. Instead of working separately, they chose to combine their strengths.

With determination and a shared vision, Chantal and Judith rented a small house that now serves as their tailoring workspace. By working as a team, they share responsibilities, support one another, and build stability together.

Their daily earnings provide meaningful support to their families.
“Every day, I earn at least 3,000 Rwandan francs (around 2 USD),” Judith explained. “I use it to support my family and my siblings. My family never goes without salt or soap while I am working. I also help my mother pay school fees, health insurance and other needs.”
Chantal earns between 2,000 and 3,000 Rwandan francs daily which she also uses to cover her family’s basic needs.

Both young women are members of the Ubumwe Village Savings and Loans Association. Each week, they save 2,000 Rwandan francs to expand their business in the future. Together, they contribute 8,000 Rwandan francs per month to cover their workspace rent.

“In just three months, we have saved Rwf 124,000 (approx. 85). Our goal is to acquire our own workspace and build a sustainable tailoring business that secures our long-term growth.”
Beyond financial stability, their partnership has strengthened their personal wellbeing. Through teamwork, they have gained confidence, independence and a stronger sense of belonging.

09/02/2026

Three Brothers, one Journey: From hardship to hope

In the green hills of Nyamagabe District, near Rwanda Polytechnic Kitabi, three brothers have learned what it truly means to stand together. Emmanuel Niyomugabo (24), Eric Niyomugabo (20) and their younger brother Placide Izabayo (16) have been growing up in a child-headed household, relying on one another to survive and move forward in life.

Their father passed away. Shortly afterwards, their mother abandoned them. To this day, they do not know where she lives. Their days were once filled with uncertainty. In 2022, when SOS Children’s Villages Rwanda identified their household, the brothers were struggling to stay in school. Food was scarce, clothing was limited, and each day brought new worries. Emmanuel remembers those difficult moments clearly:

“Life was very hard, and we did not know what tomorrow would bring to us.” Emmanuel stated.

Things slowly began to change when the brothers were supported through the Family Strengthening Program. They received training in saving and income generation, along with a pig that later produced six piglets a small but powerful step towards building their own livelihood. SOS Children’s Villages Rwanda also supported them with school fees and essential learning materials, helping them remain in school.

For Emmanuel, education opened new doors. After completing secondary school (S6) with a specialisation in Forestry, he earned a place at Rwanda Polytechnic, where he now studies Forest Resource Management. Each month, he receives a bursary of RWF 40,000 (Approx 27.5 USD), easing the financial burden on the family.

Eric’s path was different but equally promising. With support, he enrolled in vocational training in mechanics and later received a start-up toolkit from SOS Children’s Villages. Encouraged by his older brother, Eric was connected to a job opportunity at Rwanda Polytechnic. Today, he works in the tree nursery used for practical training, earning RWF 60,000 (approx. 41.3 USD) per month.

“My brother helped me get a job where he is studying,” Eric says with a smile. “It is close to our home. I now save money so that one day I can start my own garage in Kigali.”

Today, the brothers speak with confidence and hope. Emmanuel dreams of becoming self-employed, running nurseries for trees such as eucalyptus and avocado. Together, Emmanuel and Eric now provide food, clothing and school support for their youngest brother Placide who is currently in Primary 6. Each week, they also manage to save at least RWF 3,000 (approx 2 USD) planning carefully for the future.

“SOS Children’s Villages in Rwanda has given us direction in life through the Family Strengthening Program.” He added.

With steady support and their strong bond as brothers, their home once marked by hardship is now filled with stability, confidence and hope for a better future.