Annual event highlights compassion-driven parenting at the heart of Rwanda’s child welfare efforts.
Rwanda’s Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion on Friday recognized “Ba Malayika Murinzi” Guardian Angels, foster parents who care for children without family support, during a national celebration held at the Kigali Independent University (ULK).
The event, organized in partnership with the National Child Development Agency (NCDA), marked the second annual Guardian Angel Day. This year’s theme was: “Treat Every Child as Your Own.”
Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Console Uwimana praised caregivers for embodying traditional Rwandan values of compassion and collective parenting.
“This was always part of our culture no child was ever abandoned,” Uwimana said. “Families and neighbors would come together to care for a child in need. We had no orphanages.”
She also thanked President Paul Kagame’s administration for implementing policies that prioritize family-based care over institutionalization.
“We recognize and deeply appreciate the love and sacrifice shown by these parents,” Uwimana said. “There is no reward great enough to match what you do for this country.”
Guardian parents from across the country shared emotional stories highlighting the impact of fostering.
Vilgenie UWAMBAJEMARIYA, from Gisagara District, recalled taking in newborn twins after their mother died in childbirth. Though she had not breastfed in years, she tried again — and it worked.
“They’re now four years old, healthy and happy. They know me as their mother,” she said.
Jean Paul Safari, a family friend who fosters a child in Gasabo District, said the experience is both humbling and rewarding.
“This is a day of pride and joy. We’re raising the future of Rwanda,” he said.
Mathieu Mvuyekure, from Rubavu District, is raising two children whose mother was killed by their father, who is now in prison.
“They’re doing well in school. I encourage others to open their hearts to these children,” he said.
Thérèse Nyinawumuntu, from Nyaruguru District, began caring for a six-year-old orphan in 2016.
“You don’t need wealth to raise a child — just a compassionate heart,” she said.
National Effort, Deep Roots
The Guardian Angel program was launched in 1997 by First Lady Jeannette Kagame. Today, more than 4,000 foster parents are registered nationwide, with others awaiting placement or fostering informally.
Assumpta Ingabire, NCDA director general, said the initiative remains vital to ensuring all children grow up in loving homes.
“You offer children security, hope and a future,” she said.
Benenganji Fénias, a Guardian Angel from Burera District, called for regular training sessions that connect foster parents with the children in their care.
“We need shared goals and continuous collaboration,” he said.
The event included performances by students, speeches, music, and shared meals. Children participated in dancing and games, while guests celebrated the caregivers who treat non-biological children as their own.
Upholding Tradition Through Policy
Uwimana closed the event by urging Rwandans to reclaim their communal approach to child-rearing.
“We must return to our roots, where every child belonged to the entire community,” she said.
The Guardian Angel program supports Rwanda’s broader efforts to achieve sustainable development and promote social protection based on compassion, dignity and shared responsibility.
