The Masaka Early Childhood Development Center (ECDC), a model initiative aimed at nurturing the future of Rwanda’s youngest citizens, is close to its official launch as construction nears completion. A recent joint site visit by officials from Imbuto Foundation and Mount Kigali University revealed that the center is nearly ready to open its doors.
The facility, situated in Masaka Sector of Kicukiro District, is a result of a strong partnership between Imbuto Foundation and Mount Kigali University. Both institutions have been working hand-in-hand to establish a state-of-the-art center that will support the holistic development of children aged 0 to 6 years.
According to Engineer Jimy Gakwaya, the Project Engineer at Imbuto Foundation, the construction project has taken approximately five months. “The progress has been remarkable. We’re thrilled that this vital project will soon begin serving the community,” he said during the inspection.
Once launched, the Masaka ECDC will be equipped with key child-focused infrastructure, including a kitchen, classrooms designed for 40 students, and a spacious assembly area. Beyond physical facilities, the center aims to deliver a wide range of services such as early childhood education, nutrition, healthcare, hygiene, child protection, and a comprehensive parenting program. These services are designed to ensure that children not only survive but thrive in their early developmental years.
Officials from Kicukiro District, who accompanied the inspection team, expressed their confidence that the center would be operational within the coming days. The center is expected to become a model for integrated child development services in the region.
This project is the latest milestone in a broader, long-term collaboration between Imbuto Foundation and Mount Kigali University. The partnership began in February 2018 with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), under which Mount Kigali University, then operating as Mount Kenya University Rwanda, committed $150,000 over five years. The funds were used to support the education of 100 vulnerable secondary school students and to provide scholarships for five high-performing young girls.
Following the successful implementation of their initial goals, the two partners renewed their agreement in February 2022. In the renewed MoU, Mount Kigali University increased its contribution to $175,000 over another five-year term, reaffirming its dedication to educational empowerment and social development.
PHOTOS BY Regis Gatari
