During the holy month of Ramadan, 150 young Muslims across Rwanda have experienced a gesture of compassion and hope from Zakat Foundation of America, working through the Abdallah Kiromba Foundation (AKF), delivered gift packages to orphans and vulnerable youth.
The initiative has reached communities across several districts, including Gatsibo, Nyagatare, Ngoma, Rwamagana, and Bugesera in the Eastern Province; Gicumbi and Musanze in the Northern Province; Kamonyi and Nyanza in the Southern Province; Rubavu in the Western Province; as well as the City of Kigali.
For many of the beneficiaries, receiving a gift package during Ramadan represents far more than material support. It reflects the spirit of generosity, faith, and solidarity that defines the holy month.
Iyakoze Iyan Rahim, a Primary Five pupil in Rubavu and an avid football fan, said the gift package brought him joy while inspiring a sense of responsibility toward others.
“I am very happy for the gift package,” Rahim said. “I always fast and pray five times a day during Ramadan. I am thankful for the people who thought about us. When I grow up, I want to help others too, just like they are helping us.”
Nasimu Tuyisenge, a secondary school student in Rubavu, reflected on the deeper spiritual meaning of the season and the joy the support brings.
“Ramadan is when Muslims fast for 30 days, pray, and ask God for forgiveness,” she said. “It is also a time to help those who cannot help themselves. Receiving the gift package makes me feel like I can celebrate Eid alongside other children.”
Akram Uwimpuhwe, a student studying automobile technology at ETAG School in Rubavu, said the gift reminded him of the teachings of Prophet Muhammad about kindness and sharing.
“Ramadan teaches me to fast, avoid bad deeds, and become closer to God,” he said. “Even when we receive a gift package, we are encouraged to share with others. The Prophet Muhammad taught us to care for people in need.”
Having lost both parents at a young age, Uwimpuhwe dreams of becoming a mechanical engineer and hopes one day to support other young people facing similar challenges.
Having lost both parents at a young age, Uwimpuhwe dreams of becoming a mechanical engineer and hopes to provide the same guidance and support to youth in need one day.
In the Northern Province, Hirwa Shimwe Hakimu, a Senior One student from Musanze, said the initiative reflects the true spirit of Ramadan.
“Ramadan teaches us to be good, fast, and pray,” he said. “At school we also learn the Qur’an and understand its teachings. I wish all young Muslims Ramadan Kareem and Eid Mubarak.”
Another student from Musanze, Dusengimana Djohali, a Senior Six pupil at GS Muhoza II, emphasized the importance of gratitude and reflection during the holy month.
“I thank the foundation for the gift package we have received,” he said. “During Ramadan, I dedicate more time to reading the Qur’an and learning to love others as I love myself.”
Ibrahim Ndayizeye, a student from Gatsibo District in Eastern Rwanda, described the support as a powerful reminder that communities care for vulnerable youth.
“Receiving the gift package reminded me that people care about our wellbeing,” he said. “It encourages me to study hard, stay close to God, and one day help others in my community.”
Across Rwanda, this year’s Ramadan initiative has reached 150 young beneficiaries, offering not only practical assistance but also reinforcing values of compassion, generosity, and solidarity.
For the children involved, the support symbolizes more than a gift—it represents faith, community, and hope. Many say the initiative has strengthened their commitment to education and inspired them to continue helping others long after Ramadan ends.
“This support shows that our religious community cares for us,” Ibrahim added. “It reminds us to pray, give back, and live with kindness.”
As the holy month nears the end, the young recipients say the experience has deepened their faith and renewed their determination to pursue education, serve their communities, and live according to the values that Ramadan teaches.
