On Tuesday, January 14, 2025, the National Child Development Agency (NCDA) called on the Catholic Church in Rwanda to strengthen its partnership with the government in promoting children’s well-being. The focus is on protecting children from abuse and malnutrition, ensuring they receive the care they need for healthy development.
The message was shared during a meeting with priests responsible for children’s welfare in Catholic parishes across the country. Around 300 priests attended the session, where they discussed ways to collaborate on child development.
The priests were provided with materials to guide them in caring for children, with the goal of protecting them from abuse and supporting their growth.
Ingabire Assoumpta, the Director-General of NCDA, emphasized that child care is a shared responsibility. “Everyone in society must play a role,” she said. “The Catholic Church has many programs that help protect children, including early childhood development centers that prevent malnutrition.”
Assoumpta also highlighted that the Rwandan government has implemented policies to protect children. She believes that by working together, they can reduce child abuse, which often happens at the hands of parents or neighbors.
She added, “Priests play an important role in children’s lives. They help ensure children’s needs are met, from hygiene to emotional and physical development. Collaboration with parents is key.”
The Catholic Church has a group called “Friends of Children” dedicated to supporting children. The government also has “Family Friends” who assist in resolving family conflicts. Together, these efforts ensure that children are well cared for.
Jean Marie Vianney Twagirayezu, Bishop of the Diocese of Kibungo and President of the Episcopal Commission for Children’s Promotion, affirmed the Church’s commitment to working with the government. “From conception to adulthood, we fight for the child’s place in life,” he said. “We are here today to discuss the care of children between 6 and 14, and also consider those younger or older.”
He explained that when priests interact with children, they ensure their hygiene and development are on track. They also engage with parents, identifying any gaps and working together to care for the child.
In Rwanda, the NCDA reports that in 2022, 80% of children under three years old participated in early childhood development programs. This number dropped to 70% in 2023 but increased to 80.7% in 2024.
For children aged three to six, participation in early childhood development programs has steadily increased. In 2022, 59.7% of children in this age group attended ECD centers. In 2023, the number rose to 60%, and in 2024, it reached 62.5%.
This ongoing collaboration between the Church and government continues to make a positive impact on the lives of children across Rwanda.
