On Thursday, December 11, 2025, Nyamagabe District celebrated the Early Childhood Development Day (ECD Day) in an event organized in partnership with the National Child Development Agency (NCDA) and the European Union Delegation to Rwanda (EU in Rwanda) through the Tubakuze project. The day focused on encouraging parents and caregivers to strengthen their role in supporting the proper growth and development of young children.
Hildebrand Niyomwungeri, the Mayor of Nyamagabe District, commended the progress made in promoting early childhood development, noting that the district has more than 1664 ECD centers providing quality early learning services. He added that the district has 6,974 caregivers, of whom 4,072 have already received specialized training on early childhood care and development.
“Proper child development is the foundation of a bright future. Having many well-functioning ECD centers gives us confidence in the wellbeing of our children and the future development of our district.” He spoke.
Parents who attended the event testified to the positive impact ECD centers have had on their children, providing them with equal opportunities to begin school with adequate preparation. Mukantabana Olive, a parent from Gasaka Sector, shared her gratitude.
“In the past, many children stayed at home all day, and some joined school without proper readiness. We are now proud of ECD centers because they help children develop good behavior, life skills, and self-confidence.” She testified.
Niyonshuti Emmanuel, also from Gasaka Sector, added that ECD services have greatly supported parents as well. “When a child is in an ECD center, the parent can carry out their daily activities with peace of mind. These centers have become a strong foundation for our families.” He shared.
Vedaste Nshimiyimana, the Executive Secretary of the Southern Province, emphasized that the province has invested heavily in expanding ECD centers closer to households.
“When ECD centers are within reach, children attend more consistently, and parents receive proper guidance on child development. We encourage all parents to continue using these services so that children grow up healthy and prepared.” He Stated.
Assumpta Ingabire, the Director General of NCDA, explained that the Government of Rwanda has prioritized early childhood development beginning from the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, as this period shapes the child’s long-term health, capacity, and future potential. She highlighted the six pillars of early childhood development services, which include: Adequate nutrition, good health, Quality early learning and nurturing care, Safety and child protection, Brain stimulation and cognitive development and Early preparation for school.
“We work to ensure that every child receives all the essential services they need nutrition, health, nurturing care, and cognitive stimulation. When these elements come together, the child grows with strong abilities and is well prepared for learning.” She highlighted.
During the celebration, leaders and partners visited ECD homes in Gasaka Sector and the ECD center inside Nyamagabe Correctional Service. Both sites demonstrated that ECD services can be provided anywhere, including in communities with limited knowledge or challenging living conditions.
This year’s ECD Day delivered a powerful message to parents and partners reaffirming the commitment to putting the child at the center of development, as children remain the foundation of the nation’s future. Nyamagabe continues to advance equitable opportunities for all children from their earliest days thanks to strong collaboration between local leaders, partners, and the community.
