Japan Helps Build Rwanda Center for Children With Special Needs



Disability

27, Jan-2026     Mugisha R. John


Japan has provided a grant of $89,000 to support the construction of a new facility for children with intellectual disabilities in Rwanda’s Bugesera district, officials said.


The funding agreement was signed Jan. 26, 2026, between the Japanese Embassy in Rwanda and AVEH Umurerwa, a local organization that supports children with intellectual disabilities in Nyamata sector. The grant, equivalent to about 129.4 million Rwandan francs, is part of Japan’s grassroots development assistance program aimed at supporting small community projects in developing countries.

The new facility is expected to significantly increase AVEH Umurerwa’s capacity to care for children with special needs. Once completed, the building will include 102 rooms and 96 beds, allowing the organization to expand its residential services from about 20 children to more than 100.

The grant will also cover equipment for the center, including furniture, 22 wheelchairs and sports equipment to support the children’s physical and social development.

Japanese Ambassador to Rwanda Nakajo Kazuya said he was pleased that one of his first agreements after taking office focused on supporting children with disabilities.

“This project reflects Japan’s commitment to human security and inclusive development at the community level,” Nakajo said.

AVEH Umurerwa Executive Director Ndayambaje Eugene said the new center will help address longstanding challenges, including limited space and resources.

“This will reduce the burden on the government and provide much-needed support to families raising children with special needs,” Ndayambaje said.

Founded in 2005, AVEH Umurerwa currently supports about 120 children, including 20 who live at its center and others who receive care while remaining with their families.


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