The Abdallah Kiromba Foundation, a homegrown charity in Rwanda working in partnership with the Zakat Foundation of America, has once again stepped in to keep vulnerable children in school, easing the burden on families who have long struggled to meet education costs.
On January 2, 2026, the foundation began distributing school fees and essential learning materials to 50 children from 35 disadvantaged families living in Kigali, Nyanza, Bugesera, Rwamagana, Gicumbi, and Ngoma. For many of these children are raised by widowed mothers; financial hardship had forced an abrupt pause in their education. Similar distributions in parts of the Northern and Eastern provinces followed over the weekend, extending the reach of the program
For Murerwa Jolly, a widow and mother of two, the support has been nothing short of a turning point. Her children, both in nursery schools, had been at home for months after she failed to raise school fees.
“I was not in a position to pay school fees or buy scholastic materials,” she said. “My children were stuck at home. Now they can go back to school. I am very happy and grateful to this foundation.”
Beyond covering education costs, the foundation’s work has also offered families something less tangible but equally important; emotional reassurance and a sense of belonging. Jolly said the program has brought together women facing similar struggles, creating a supportive community.
“We have met other women like us, and this foundation has brought us together,” she said. “Our children now have a brighter future.”
Ingabire Shadia, another beneficiary, shared a similar experience. The foundation has supported her children for the past two years, following the death of their father. Both children are now in Senior Two.
“This foundation is like a father to my children,” she said. “They pay school fees and provide materials I could never afford. Without this help, my children would be sitting at home.”
Students themselves are also feeling the impact. Sango Osama, a Senior Two student who lost a parent, said the foundation’s support has allowed him to focus on his studies without constant interruptions.
“I can study throughout the year without worrying,” he said. “I am grateful to the sponsors for helping me work toward my dreams.”
According to the Abdallah Kiromba Foundation, more than 150 orphans are currently benefiting from its education support programs across 14 districts in Rwanda. The foundation provides school fees, uniforms, learning materials, and mentorship, working closely with schools and local leaders. Education, the AKF foundation say’s, remains one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty; restoring hope and helping vulnerable children grow into confident, resilient members of society.
