The Imbuto Foundation officially opened the Masaka Early Childhood Hub on Thursday, October 9, 2025, giving young children a safe place to learn and grow. The centre also helps parents and caregivers support their children’s health, nutrition, and development.
The hub, built in partnership with Mount Kigali University, is part of Rwanda’s national program to improve early childhood development for children under six. It has been operating for nearly a month, serving 169 children—90 girls and 79 boys.
Masaka Sector is the most densely populated sector in Kicukiro District. The 2022 census showed its population more than doubled in a decade, rising from over 35,000 in 2012 to more than 72,000 in 2022.
Before the Imbuto Foundation expanded the centre, only two classrooms served 25 children. Many others had to wait until age seven to start primary school.
The new hub adds four classrooms and a kitchen, allowing more children to participate in guided learning through play, songs, and other activities. A special room for parents hosts monthly sessions, teaching skills they can use at home to support their children’s growth.
Élodie Shami, executive director of Imbuto Foundation, highlighted the importance of early childhood development.
“When we invest in young children, we invest in life itself,” Shami said. “These early years lay the foundation for confidence, compassion, and creativity. A child nurtured early grows with love and values that guide their entire life.”
Parents expressed gratitude for the expanded services. Adeline Niragira said her child could not speak or play before attending the hub, but now she sees growth in language, confidence, and social skills.
Prof. Simon Gicharu, founder and chair of Mount Kigali University, praised the collaboration with Imbuto Foundation, saying it supports national development. Assumpta Ingabire, CEO of the National Child Development Agency, noted that Rwanda aims to provide early childhood services from birth until at least age six to prepare children for primary school.
Early childhood centres were first launched by Madam Jeannette Kagame in 2013. In a related development, a foundation stone was laid for a new centre in Murama Sector, Gasabo District. Mount Kigali University donated Rwf 150 million to support its construction.
