Improving access to healthcare and education for children with disabilities took centre stage on June 16 as Rwanda joined the world in marking the International Day of the African Child. Observed annually on June 16, the day commemorates the 1976 Soweto Uprising in South Africa, when students protested against discriminatory education policies and demanded their right to quality education. The occasion highlights the challenges African children face in accessing education, healthcare and other essential services, while promoting efforts to protect their rights and wellbeing. ALSO READ: Parents decry shortage of ‘special schools’ for autistic children At Kibagabaga Hospital, Love Initiative Day was launched to promote inclusion, compassion and support for children facing health challenges. Students from Love With Actions Academy visited children receiving treatment in the Neonatology and Paediatrics departments, sharing gifts, songs, prayers and words of encouragement. “These children shared love, care and encouragement with children facing health challenges. This special day is an opportunity to demonstrate compassion and remind them that they are loved and valued,” said Gilbert Kubwimana, founder of Love With Actions Academy, which serves more than 106 learners with disabilities. Kubwimana said the initiative also sought to demonstrate inclusion by bringing together children with and without disabilities. “We wanted to show inclusiveness. Children using wheelchairs and crutches, alongside those without disabilities, came together to visit and support children who have been ill for a long time,” he said. ALSO READ: Activists call for schools for children living with multiple disabilities He noted that children with disabilities continue to face challenges, including limited access to specialised education, assistive devices and trained teachers. “We have a growing demand for support, equipment, learning materials and trained staff to help these children thrive,” he said, calling on organisations and individuals to increase support. New rehabilitation centre unveiled A specialised centre that will provide medical services to children with physical disabilities was also unveiled in Sake Sector, Ngoma District, as part of efforts to expand access to rehabilitation services. The facility was visited by Ngoma District Mayor Nathalie Niyonagira, Ministry of Health officials led by Dr Jean Baptiste Ntihumbya, Director General in charge of Health Services, and development partners. Niyonagira said the centre was built by the Catholic Church through the Kibungo Diocese and will initially operate as a service unit under Rukoma-Sake Health Centre. ALSO READ: High school cost derails education of special needs learners The facility is expected to serve more than 100 children, allowing them to receive specialised treatment closer to home and reducing the financial burden on families who previously travelled long distances for care. Following an assessment, officials agreed that the centre would later become an independent facility as its services expand. Education targets for 2029 Efforts to improve inclusion in education are also underway. Five special schools for children with disabilities, including autism, are planned across the country, while 11,340 new resilient and inclusive classrooms are expected to be built by 2029. ALSO READ: Activists call for schools for children living with multiple disabilities The number of children with disabilities enrolled in primary schools is projected to increase from 40,324 to 80,323 by 2029, reflecting broader efforts to ensure every child has access to quality education and support services.
