Among the new appointees are Richard Nyirishema, Minister of Sports, who replaced Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju, Prudence Sebahizi, Minister of Trade and Industry, who succeeded Prof. Ngabitsinze Jean Chrysostome; and Ambassador Christine Nkulikiyinka, Minister of Public Service and Labor, who took over from Prof. Jeannette Bayisenge.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Prudence Sebahizi, the newly appointed Minister of Trade and Industry, expressed his gratitude to the President for entrusting him with this role. He emphasized his commitment to driving positive changes within the Ministry.
“This Ministry oversees the industrial sector, which is crucial for the country’s production, as well as trade, which ensures that our products reach the market. I plan to address any existing challenges within these sectors and ensure that the products reach the market efficiently,” he stated.
Sebahizi also emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration with various institutions and agencies that support the Ministry of Trade and Industry to enhance service delivery to the public.
Regarding the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), he noted that Rwanda needs to invest in building a strong private sector capable of meeting the demands of this large market.
“We are going to focus on what we can produce in Rwanda and ensure it is of high quality for the international market, while also encouraging Rwandans to contribute to increasing the country’s output,” he added.
Amb. Christine Nkulikiyinka, the newly appointed Minister of Public Service and Labor, told IGIHE that she was at home when she received the news of her appointment, and it came as a complete surprise.
She expressed her dedication to serving the Rwandan people and contributing to their development.
“These are heavy responsibilities, but I am determined to fulfill them to the best of my ability. I am ready to work with everyone, exchange ideas, and understand the Ministry’s operations and vision,” she said.
Amb. Nkulikiyinka emphasized the need to focus on changing Rwandans’ perceptions of work. “Based on my previous experience, the first priority is learning. There are things you learn in school, but there are also life lessons. Another important aspect is changing mindsets and valuing all types of work,” she explained.
Prior to the ministerial appointment, Nkurikiyinka previously served as Rwanda’s Ambassador to several countries, including Germany, Sweden and Denmark, and represented Rwanda in Poland, Romania, Liechtenstein, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Norway, Finland, and Iceland.
Meanwhile, the new Minister of Sports Richard Nyirishema underscored that he is set to prioritize collaboration and effective partnerships with various stakeholders.
“I am grateful for the trust the President has placed in me, and I am ready to contribute our efforts to advancing sports in collaboration with all stakeholders,” he said.
He noted that specific areas needing attention and focus to promote sports development would be outlined after the handover process.
Nyirishema is well-known in Rwandan sports, having been a member of the Executive Committee of the Rwanda Basketball Federation.
Bralirwa Plc, through its social sustainability initiatives partnered with Spouts of Water Rwanda, an international social enterprise with a mission to provide access to clean drinking water and hygiene to all Africans.
Through close collaboration with Rwamagana district, 250 households in Munyiginya sector were provided with 30-litre Viva Purifaaya water filters and were trained on the simple and convenient way that the filter can be used to enjoy pure water, supporting over 1,000 beneficiaries in the community.
The initiative addresses the urgent need for safe drinking water in water-stressed areas by delivering impactful solutions that improve lives and enhance environmental and social well-being.
According to Spouts of Water, a number of rural communities continue to rely on rivers and unclean streams of water which are often contaminated, resulting in the development of waterborne diseases among other challenges which in turn hinder their socio-economic development.
“Our mission is not solely focused on providing access to clean water, but also about transforming lives. We are delighted to be working with like-minded companies such as Bralirwa that place social impact at the heart of its business strategy and is committed to driving positive change,” said David Ngarambe, Country Director of Spouts of Water Rwanda.
Etienne Saada, Managing Director of Bralirwa, reaffirmed the company’s core mission to brew a better world, emphasizing the importance of social responsibility and community well-being.
“At Bralirwa, we are committed to making a lasting impact on the communities we serve. Our partnership with Spouts of Water and donation of ceramic water filters represents a significant step forward in ensuring access to safe drinking water for all,” Saada said.
The event, which was held at Munyiginya sector, Rwamagana District, was attended by several local leaders including the Governor of Eastern Province, Pudence Rubingisa, Rwamagana district mayor, Radjab Mbonyumuvunyi.
In his remarks, Mbonyumuvunyi expressed gratitude to Bralirwa for their significant contribution towards enhancing the social well-being of the community and urged residents to unite and work collaboratively towards the district’s ongoing progress and development.
Provincial Governor Rubingisa underscored the significance of ensuring access to safe drinking water as a core component of Rwanda’s mission to achieve sustainable development.
He commended Bralirwa for the initiative and encouraged the community to conserve these essential resources and to fully leverage the benefits.
“By working together, we can collectively build a healthier and more resilient future for all,” he remarked.
Twenty-one Ministers and nine State Ministers were last week appointed with new faces including Amb. Christine Nkulikiyinka (Public Service and Labor), Prudence Sebahizi (Trade and Industry), and Richard Nyirishema (Sports).
Several existing ministers were also reappointed to continue heading their respective ministries.
Additionally, Dr. Doris Uwicyeza Picard was appointed as the CEO of Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) succeeding Dr. Usta Kayitesi.
During Monday’s swearing-in ceremony, Kagame reminded both the newly appointed and returning leaders of the significant responsibility they bear in their roles.
He emphasized that the cabinet’s renewal is not merely a routine change but an opportunity for self-evaluation and a commitment to greater achievements.
“The way I see it, there are things we did well in the past, and things that did not go as well. It’s our duty to put everything together, analyze, and ask ourselves, ‘What can we do better moving forward?’ If you don’t see it this way, then there is a problem. What you did well before means you should do even better, and what was not done well needs to be corrected as we move on,” he advised.
Kagame also stressed the importance of appreciating public criticism and using it as a tool for correction to maintain the right direction when things are going well. However, he emphasized that self-evaluation should be a constant practice.
The Head of State urged the leaders to utilize available resources and their respective capacities efficiently to fulfil their responsibilities to the Rwandan people. He cautioned against prioritizing personal interests over the common good, stating, “This means that what you do for others should also be beneficial to you, but not something you do solely for your own benefit.”
President Kagame highlighted the significant progress Rwanda has made in recent years but warned against complacency, urging the leaders to strive for even greater accomplishments.
“We have achieved many things in the past, without a doubt. But when you do good things, it is not a time to relax. It is not a time to get carried away with joy to the point that what people have been working on could regress because you are no longer paying attention or following up. You should ask yourself, even though we have achieved a lot, couldn’t we have achieved even more?” he challenged.
He also encouraged the leaders to foster collaboration among institutions to ensure they complement each other in advancing the country’s development.
Addressing the absence of some officials from the recently formed cabinet, President Kagame clarified that it was not indicative of dismissal but rather a reassignment of duties.
He acknowledged that dismissals could occur due to accountability issues but assured those who did not retain their roles that future appointments would be announced in due course.
A background check on the new ministers’ education and work experience shows that the officials are experts in various fields, including law, engineering, Science and Technology, economics and medicine among other related fields.
A spot-check conducted by IGIHE also revealed that most members of the government hold undergraduate degrees from the University of Rwanda, particularly from when it was still known as the National University of Rwanda, as well as its affiliated colleges.
{{Legal Experts
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Among the legal experts is Judith Uwizeye, who was appointed as the Minister in the Office of the President. She obtained her undergraduate degree in law from the University of Rwanda in 2006. She later pursued further studies at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, where she earned a master’s degree in international economics and business law. She joined the government in 2014 as a teacher of international economics and business at the University of Rwanda.
The Minister of Justice, Dr. Emmanuel Ugirashebuja, also studied law at the University of Rwanda and earned his Ph.D. from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Dr. Ugirashebuja has also taught law at various universities worldwide and served as the President of the East African Court of Justice.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, holds a master’s degree in tax management from Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) and a law degree from the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium.
Between 2005 and 2007, Nduhungirehe taught law at various universities, including the University of Rwanda, while managing other responsibilities.
The Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana, earned a PhD in international law from the University of Toulouse in France in 2004. Dr. Bizimana also holds a master’s degree in law from the University of Montpellier in France and an undergraduate degree in philosophy and humanities.
{{Medical Professionals
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Among the medical professionals in the new government is the Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, who holds a Ph.D. in epidemiology from the University of Basel in Switzerland and a master’s degree in epidemiology from the University of Rwanda.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Ivan Butera, studied medicine at the University of Rwanda and practised in various hospitals including CHUK, CHUB, and the Kanombe Military Hospital. Dr. Butera has a master’s degree in medicine from the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) in Butaro and a Ph.D. in human cell biology from the University of Liège in Belgium.
The Minister of Internal Security, Dr. Vincent Biruta, trained as a physician. He also holds post-graduate qualifications in planning and management of health services in developing countries, obtained from Université libre de Bruxelles, in Belgium.
Another doctor is the Minister of Youth and Arts Development, Dr. Utumatwishima Jean-Nepo Abdallah. He initially studied medicine at the University of Rwanda and earned his undergraduate degree there. Dr. Utumatwishima holds a master’s degree in public health from the University of Manchester in the UK and a Ph.D. from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden.
{{Economists
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Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente studied economics at the University of Rwanda and specialized in statistics and finance at the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium.
The Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, holds a master’s degree in statistics and research methodology from Cardiff University in Wales.
The Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Consolée Uwimana, is an investor and banking expert with a master’s degree in banking. The Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Dr. Ildephonse Musafiri, holds a Ph.D. in agricultural economics from the University of Bonn in Germany and a master’s degree in economics from the University of Rwanda. Dr. Musafiri was a lecturer and Head of Department of the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Rwanda.
{{Technology Experts
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The Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, studied technology at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA. She holds a degree in computer technology from the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology, which later became the College of Science and Technology of the University of Rwanda.
The Minister of Sports, Richard Nyirishema, also qualified with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and environmental technology from the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology in 2003.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Claudette Irere, obtained a master’s degree in computer science from Oklahoma Christian University in 2013 and a bachelor’s degree in computer science from the University of Rwanda in 2012.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Olivier Kabera, holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and environmental technology from the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology obtained in 2004. Kabera also has a master’s degree in environmental management from the University of Stirling in the UK and a business and leadership degree from the Swedish Management Institute.
{{Science Experts
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The Minister of Environment, Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the National University of Rwanda. In 2006, she earned a master’s degree in chemistry from the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa. In 2013, Dr. Valentine earned a Ph.D. in environmental engineering and a degree in water technology from UNESCO-IHE and Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands.
The Minister in charge of Emergency Management, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira, holds a master’s degree in project management from the University of Liverpool in 2016. He also obtained a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Rwanda, obtained in 1986.
The Minister of Education, Gaspard Twagirayezu, holds a master’s degree in science engineering from Oklahoma Christian University obtained in 2013.
The Minister of Infrastructure, Dr. Jimmy Gasore, holds a Ph.D. in atmospheric science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). He has also previously taught at the University of Rwanda.
The Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, holds a bachelor’s degree in social sciences and military science, a first-level degree in military and conflict resolution, a master’s degree in leadership from Ghana’s top school, and a master’s degree in international relations and diplomacy from Mount Kenya University.
In the Prime Minister’s Office, Inès Mpambara, was a teacher in the School of journalism and Communication and also served as its director. She studied journalism in Canada.
The Minister of Local Government, Jean Claude Musabyimana, also taught at the Higher Institute of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry (ISAE Busogo) before it became a branch of the University of Rwanda. He holds a Ph.D. in agriculture from the University of Gembloux in Belgium and a bachelor’s degree in agriculture from the National University of Rwanda.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth and Arts Development, Sandrine Umutoni, holds a bachelor’s degree in international relations from Agnes Scott College in the USA, a master’s degree in French, and a degree in translation from Georgia State University in the USA.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Local Government, Marie Solange Kayisire, holds a master’s degree in project planning from the University of Glasgow in Scotland, obtained in 2008.
The Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning in charge of public finance, Richard Tusabe, holds a master’s degree in project planning from Watt University in the UK.
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) confirmed this development on Monday, August 19, 2024 through their X handle.
“RDB is pleased to announce that the 20th edition of Kwita Izina will take place on October 18, 2024,” reads the statement.
Responsible for the tourism sector in Rwanda, RDB says that about 20 baby gorillas will be named. World celebrities and different illustrious personalities from around the world are expected to attend.
Many familiar names have been invited including celebrities and other prominent people in the field of conservation, whose identities will be revealed in the coming days.
Last year, the 19th edition of Kwita Izina was attended by various guests including some who work in the protection of animals and ecosystems, football stars, film actors, international celebrities and other renowned people.
Among them was Idrissa Akuna Elba OBE, an English film actor, accompanied by his wife Sabrina Dhowre Elba, a fashion expert. Others included Kevin Hart, Danai Gurira and many others.
In all, 23 baby gorillas were each given a name, in a ceremony graced by the First Lady Jeannette Kagame. Hundreds of thousands of residents of Musanze and Burera districts attended.
Kwita Izina is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of mountain gorilla conservation. Mountain Gorillas are no longer endangered species of animals due to the measures taken for their protection.
Launched last month, these services mark a significant advancement in the ease and efficiency with which individuals abroad can manage their legal documentation processes, reflecting a broader commitment to digital governance.
According to the management of Irembo, the first of these services focuses on the legalization of public documents originating from abroad, intended for use within Rwanda.
This service simplifies the complex process of legalizing foreign documents, particularly for users from countries not part of the Apostille Convention.
For these countries, applicants must first secure legalization from their home country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs before proceeding with the IremboGov platform.
Conversely, documents from countries within the Apostille Convention only require Apostille certification from the relevant local authorities. This service effectively bridges the gap between different legal frameworks, ensuring that documents meet Rwanda’s legal standards efficiently.
The second service pertains to the legalization of Powers of Attorney specifically related to property transfers. Traditionally a cumbersome and time-consuming process, this new online service provides a streamlined solution, allowing users to validate such legal instruments from anywhere in the world.
By digitizing this process, Irembo and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs seek to ensure that property transactions are both legally compliant and more accessible to all parties involved.
These services come with several advantages which collectively enhance the user experience in several ways. Firstly, they drastically reduce the time and effort required to legalize documents and validate Powers of Attorney. This newfound efficiency not only expedites property transactions but also smoothens the broader process of document legalization, offering a more seamless experience for users.
Secondly, the services reinforce legal compliance, ensuring that all transactions and documents intended for use in Rwanda adhere to the required legal standards.
Additionally, the government’s ability to oversee and process these transactions is significantly improved, promoting greater transparency and accuracy in public service delivery.
As per a statement from Irembo, this initiative represents a major milestone in the mission to enhance user convenience and operational efficiency.
Previously, navigating the legalization process involved multiple in-person visits to various offices, often leading to delays and frustrations. The introduction of these online services eliminates these barriers, allowing users to complete their transactions from the comfort of their homes or offices, no matter no matter the location.
More so, Irembo’s integration of these services is a testament to Rwanda’s vision of becoming a leading digital hub in Africa. By aligning with the government’s broader goals of improving public service delivery and promoting transparency.
Irembo is not only enhancing the user experience but also supporting the country’s ambitious digital transformation agenda.
To access these new services, users simply need to visit the IremboGov platform and select the appropriate service under the Foreign Affairs Consular Services category. From there, they can fill out the necessary forms, submit their applications, and receive their certificates in an electronic format, which is both easily storable and accessible for future use.
Additionally, the platform offers a convenient tracking feature, allowing users to monitor the status of their applications directly from their IremboGov dashboard.
As Irembo continues to lead the way in digital government services, these new innovations are a clear reflection of the platform’s dedication to reducing bureaucracy, enhancing accessibility, and providing a seamless experience for users.
This collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation underscores a shared commitment to more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly public service delivery in Rwanda.
The 21st edition of the 2024 Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) games, was flagged off by Uganda’s President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Sunday, August 18, 2024. The games feature schools from Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, and host Uganda.
Rwandan students will compete in eight sports disciplines during the one-week-long games, which are scheduled to conclude on August 26, 2024. The games are Handball, Basketball, 3×3 Basketball, Volleyball, Football, Rugby, Netball, and Athletics.
Groupe Scholaire Remera-Rukoma will open Rwanda’s games on the second day, Monday, August 19, 2024, in girls’ football against Alliance Secondary School from Tanzania.
Groupe Scolaire Officiel de Butare will face St. Augustine MS of Uganda in boys’ Volleyball, while GS St Aloys from Rwamagana will face Kwanthaze SS from Kenya in girls’ Volleyball.
In the boys’ Basketball, International Technical School of Kigali (ITS Gasogi) will face Hope Secondary School of Uganda, while G.S. Marie Reine from Rwaza will face Buddo Secondary School also from Uganda (girls).
In 3×3 Basketball category, (ITS Gasogi) will face Uganda’s Kibuli Secondary School (boys), while Association of Parents for Education (APE) Rugunga will face St. Mary’s Kitende of Uganda (girls).
In Handball, ADEGI from Gatsibo will face Mbogo Mixed Secondary School from Uganda in the boys’ category.
Rwanda hosted the 20th edition of FEASSA games at Huye in 2023. The country secured third place, trailing Uganda and Kenya, with a total of 17 medals: four gold, four silver, and nine bronze.
While flagging off the games on Sunday, Museveni thanked the participating countries, stating that the event aims to further unite members of the East African Community.
“The unity of the East African Community extends beyond sports, bringing us together as friends, brothers, and enhancing trade relations,” the Ugandan Head of State said.
FEASSSA President, Justus Mugisha, thanked Museveni for being the first Head of State to officially open these games in their history.
“We are pleased to welcome H.E. Monica Geingos as our first Chancellor. Her vast experience and leadership in support of young people make her the right person to lead our institution. We are grateful for her passion and focus on Africa’s development through economic empowerment of young Africans. This aligns with our mission, and we look forward to seeing her impact,” said Ambassador Dr. Charles Murigande, Chairman of Kepler College’s Governance Council.
Geingos is a qualified lawyer and has made significant contributions to both the private and public sectors. Before her tenure as First Lady of Namibia between March 2015 and February 2024, she was the Managing Director and co-shareholder of Namibia’s largest private equity fund for over a decade.
Most recently, she was the President of Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) where she launched the #WeAreEqual campaign, advocating for gender equity across Africa.
“As the inaugural Chancellor of Kepler College, I am profoundly honored to lead this institution into a new era of transformative education. My vision is to harness the power of knowledge not merely to inform but to inspire profound societal change. By creating a dynamic learning environment that bridges academic excellence with real-world application, we aim to ignite a generation of Pan African innovators and leaders who will drive meaningful progress,” said Geingos.
Beyond her professional achievements, Geingos’ leadership extended to her roles as a co-chair of the Global Council on Inequality, AIDS, and Pandemics, and Chairperson of the Africa REACH Leadership Council.
She has been instrumental in advocating for gender equity and economic inclusivity through her various platforms.
“Mrs. Geingos’ appointment as Chancellor marks a significant milestone for Kepler College. She brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a unique perspective that will enrich the College’s academic culture and commitment to excellence and inclusivity. I am confident that her leadership will greatly enhance our ability to offer transformative higher education,” said Prof. Baylie Damtie Yeshita, Vice-Chancellor of Kepler College.
Geingos’ global recognition includes receiving the ‘World Without AIDS Award’ from the German AIDS Foundation and being appointed as a UNAIDS Special Advocate for Young Women and Adolescent Girls. In April 2024, she was honored with an Honorary Doctor of Philosophy from Jharkhand Rai University.
As Chancellor, Geingos will preside over convocation ceremonies, confer degrees, and represent Kepler College within and outside the academic community.
Kepler College prepares young Africans with global competencies and the mindset to address local challenges. With innovative competency-based education model, it offers high-quality, affordable, and employment-driven higher education at the nexus of management and technology.
It currently provides a Bachelor of Arts degree in Project Management and a Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics, along with a range of professional development courses designed to equip students with the essential skills for the 21st-century workforce.
Kepler College offers US degrees in partnership with the Southern New Hampshire University program. Through this partnership, over 2,500 students across Kigali and the Kiziba refugee camp in Karongi district have enrolled.
She took a six-year break from politics during which she established Bright Stars Foundation Academy, a private educational institution located in Gasabo district.
Kazarwa has now returned with a renewed focus on addressing the nation’s evolving needs through legislative reforms.
In an exclusive interview with IGIHE, Kazarwa shared her vision for the next five years, highlighting her key focus areas, responding to citizens’ criticisms, and outlining her commitment to the Rwandan people.
{{Priorities}}
As the new Speaker of Parliament, Kazarwa’s primary goal is to ensure that the legislative body remains dynamic and responsive to Rwanda’s rapid development.
“Our country’s rapid development requires solid, evolving laws that address emerging issues,” Kazarwa stated, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among members to align their efforts with the government’s broader programs.
Kazarwa’s immediate focus is to review the handover documents from the previous leadership to understand the progress made and identify the starting points for the new term.
She highlighted the importance of examining the government’s wide-ranging agenda and working closely with other institutions to ensure effective governance.
{{Addressing citizens’ criticisms}}
Citizens have often expressed concerns that Parliament does not fully represent their interests, particularly on issues such as taxes and rising market prices.
Kazarwa addressed these criticisms head-on, explaining that while taxes are necessary for national development, it is crucial to ensure that they are not overly burdensome.
“Taxes are essential for building infrastructure like roads. Compared to other countries, our taxes are not the highest,” she noted.
Kazarwa stressed the need for continuous education on the importance of taxes and ensuring that public funds are managed transparently.
Regarding the issue of rising prices, Kazarwa acknowledged that these fluctuations can often be attributed to global economic conditions beyond Rwanda’s control.
However, she assured citizens that Parliament is proactive in addressing such concerns by summoning relevant ministers to provide explanations and taking necessary legislative actions.
{{Parliament’s role in government oversight}}
Parliament’s effectiveness in holding the government accountable has been questioned by some, who believe that the legislative body could be more active in this regard.
Kazarwa clarified that Parliament follows strict legal procedures when overseeing government activities.
“We prepare reports and forward them to the Prime Minister, and issues are followed up by various parliamentary committees,” she explained.
Kazarwa also highlighted the role of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in summoning individuals to account for the use of public funds as part of Parliament’s broader efforts to ensure transparency and accountability.
{{Promise to Rwandans}}
Looking ahead, Kazarwa made a solemn promise to the people of Rwanda.
“My promise to Rwandans is that, together with other institutions, we will work for them because they elected us, and we are their voice,” she declared.
Kazarwa committed to ensuring that projects are not delayed, that the President’s promises to the citizens are fulfilled promptly, and that the budget is managed effectively to prioritize and execute essential tasks.
It was started by by volunteers who felt the passion and need to help vulnerable youths especially young underprivileged school going children.
Over the years, TIP evolved, and today, SOLIDACT stands as a legally registered nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting vulnerable children in Rwanda.
The Organization is led by a Council with Rosette Murigande as the Chairperson, Pascaline Umutesi, as the Deputy, a team of advisors, the secretary and treasurer.
Through a comprehensive approach that addresses education, health, and community support, SOLIDACT is making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.
{{From Vision to Reality
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The SOLIDACT Foundation’s story began with a simple, yet profound goal: to support vulnerable children, particularly in their education and development.
What started as the Tubakunde Initiative Program under EPCA quickly gained momentum as the founders recognized the immense need for structured support for children facing various socio-economic challenges.
“In 2022, we started small, sponsoring just a few students,” recalls Jean Gakwaya, the Executive Secretary of SOLIDACT. “Our efforts have since expanded, and are now supporting many more across different regions. This growth was driven by our unwavering belief that every child deserves a chance to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.”
As TIP’s impact grew, so did the vision of its founders. In 2024, the initiative was formalized through the establishment of SOLIDACT Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a clear mission: to provide holistic support for vulnerable children and youth, fostering their welfare, education, and socio-economic development.
The foundation’s vision is ambitious yet attainable—to create a world where every child and youth from vulnerable families is empowered to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.
{{Impact on the Ground: Education, Health, and Community Support
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SOLIDACT’S commitment to making a difference is evident in the scope and depth of its work. In the academic year 2024-2025, the foundation plans to extend its support to 59 more vulnerable children from Kagarama and Bumbogo Sectors in Gasabo district.
These children receive more than just basic educational materials; they are provided with the tools they need to thrive.
“Education is the cornerstone of our support, but we know that it’s not enough on its own,” Gakwaya explains. “That’s why we also focus on health and community support, ensuring that these children and their families have the resources they need to build better futures.”
In 2024, SOLIDACT intends to distribute essential school supplies such as notebooks, pens, uniforms, and shoes the children they support, ensuring they had everything necessary to start the school year prepared.
Additionally, the foundation paid for community health insurance for the children and their families. This support not only alleviates the financial burden on these families but also ensures that the children can focus on their education without worrying about healthcare costs.
The impact extends beyond education and health. In August 2023, the foundation demonstrated its commitment to community support by providing aid to 164 families
affected by devastating floods in Nyundo Sector.
The assistance included the distribution of food, kitchen utensils, cleaning materials, and shoes. Additionally, in partnership with Umurenge SACCO-Nyundo, they provided collateral for small business owners affected by the floods, helping them rebuild their lives and businesses.
“We believe that supporting a child also means supporting their family and community,” says Gakwaya. “When a family is strong, the child is more likely to succeed.”
{{Building for the Future: The Recreation Center of Excellence
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As SOLIDACT continues to grow, it is also looking towards the future with ambitious plans to expand its reach and impact. One of the cornerstone projects on the horizon is the creation of a Recreation Center of Excellence in Nyundo Sector, in Rubavu district.
This center will serve as a hub for holistic development, offering a wide range of activities and services designed to support the physical, mental, and cultural growth of the children under their care.
“The Recreation Center will be more than just a place for academic support,” Gakwaya explains. “It will be a comprehensive environment where children can thrive, both physically and mentally.”
The center will feature state-of-the-art multi-sport facilities, including a basketball court and a multi-purpose field for football and volleyball. These facilities will not only promote physical fitness but also encourage teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking.
In addition to sports, the center will offer a variety of cultural and creative activities, such as traditional Rwandan dance and music workshops, art and craft classes, and storytelling sessions that celebrate Rwanda’s rich history and heritage.
“Our goal is to create a space where children can explore their talents, connect with their culture, and develop the skills they need to succeed in the future,” says Gakwaya.
Monique Nyiransengiyumva, the Executive Secretary of Nyundo Sector says that these initiatives by SOLIDAID provided youths with the tools to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
“These developments provide adequate facilities and space for children to focus on their development utilizing all opportunities to get a bright future,” she said.
{{A Call to Action: Join the Journey
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As SolidAct looks to the future, it is true that the foundation’s success will depend on the support and involvement of the community. Gakwaya emphasizes that there are many ways to contribute to the foundation’s mission, whether through financial support, volunteering, or simply sharing ideas.
“We invite anyone who is passionate about making a difference to join us,” he says. “Together, we can build a brighter future for these children and their families.”
For those interested in supporting, SOLIDACT can be reached at +250788303395.
{{A Legacy of Hope and Empowerment
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The SOLIDACT Foundation is more than just an organization; it is a lifeline for vulnerable children in Rwanda. Through its comprehensive approach to education, health, and community support, opportunities for children to thrive and build better futures are created.
As the foundation continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to its mission of empowerment and hope, ensuring that every child has the chance to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.
With ambitious plans for the future, including the creation of the Recreation Center of Excellence, SOLIDACT is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come. The foundation’s work is a testament to the power of collective action and the belief that, together, a world where every child has the opportunity to succeed can be created today.
