As World Vision Rwanda prepares to celebrate 30 years of transforming lives, the organization held a significant pre-event on November 28 in Burera District: the laying of a foundation stone for an integrated Early Childhood Development (ECD) center and a second-generation health post in Buzaniro.

This event was part of a series of activities leading to the anniversary celebrations, showcasing World Vision's commitment to improving child well-being and community development. The ECD center, which includes a water connection, reflects the organization’s holistic approach to promoting education, health, and sanitation services in rural communities.

ALSO READ: With all our efforts, all children can attain ECD education

Speaking at the ceremony, Pauline Okumu, National Director of World Vision Rwanda, highlighted the significance of the initiative within the organization’s broader mission.

"This new Early Childhood Development Center and Health Post will address critical needs in health and education for the youngest and most vulnerable. Over the years, we have provided clean water, sanitation, and hygiene to many communities, and through projects like these, we continue to offer children a brighter, healthier future,” Okumu said.

For the past three decades, World Vision Rwanda has invested over USD 625 million in transformative programs that promote child well-being, focusing on Water, Sanitation & Hygiene (WASH), Child Protection, Education, Resilience, and Livelihoods.

ALSO READ: World Vision&039;s ‘Youth Ready’ initiative to empower 8,000 agents of change

Pauline Okumu attributed the organization’s success to the guidance and the excellent leadership of President Paul Kagame, whose policies have created an environment conducive to nonprofit operations.

"Our transformational approach addresses all factors affecting vulnerable children’s well-being. We work with families, partners, and communities to tackle complex challenges and ensure children have access to health, education, and are cared for,” Okumu noted.

Among the many lives touched by World Vision’s work is that of Chantal Mukamarara, who recounted how the organization transformed her future. At the age of 10, while attending primary school in Bugesera District’s Ntarama Sector, Mukamarara was orphaned and struggling without resources. Enrolled in World Vision’s sponsorship program, she received school materials, uniforms, and healthcare. The organization also supported her widowed mother by supporting her to engage in an income-generating activity and provided her with livestock.

"World Vision funded my education in medical laboratory studies, enabling me to work at Nyagihamba Health Center. Now, as a 34-year-old mother of two, I live a life filled with hope and opportunity. Their support was life-changing, and I am committed to giving back to my community,” Mukamarara told The New Times.

Her story is echoed by Jean de Dieu Tuyishime, another alumnus who credits World Vision for restoring his hope during a difficult childhood. Sponsored from primary school to university, Tuyishime now thrives as a professional and community leader.

"We are proud alumni—fathers, mothers, leaders, lecturers, and private sector professionals. World Vision gave us a foundation, and we are committed to paying it forward,” Tuyishime said.

This pre-event also celebrates the solid partnerships between World Vision, communities, the government, and alumni, who continue to collaborate to broaden the organization’s impact.

Maurice Mugabowagahunde, Governor of the Northern Province, applauded World Vision for its contribution to development.

"The collaboration with World Vision has improved access to essential services like clean water, sanitation, healthcare, and education. As we celebrate this milestone, let us commit to ensuring the sustainability of these projects and prioritize the well-being of every child,” he said.

The ceremony not only marked the beginning of an essential community facility but also symbolized World Vision’s forward-looking commitment to sustainable development for the next generation.

With three decades of transformational impact and a vision for continued partnership and growth, World Vision Rwanda stands out as one of the organizations improving livelihoods in the community, supporting children, their families, and communities through holistic approaches across the nation.