Rwanda
Can we ensure all children survive the first years of life?
The history of Rwanda
Rwanda gained independence from colonial rule in 1962. However, violence and instability continued in the country for the next 30 years. In 1994, the president was assassinated and Hutu political leaders began a genocide campaign against all Tutsis. 800,000 Tutsis were murdered and 95,000 children were orphaned.The genocide ruined Rwanda’s fragile economy.
Denis Niyizurugero’s Story
Denis is a community-elected health worker. He lives in Nyarubanda village. The nearest health center from Nyarubanda village is 2 hours away when you walk. Denis was trained by Concern to treat Malaria and other basic health problems. Each year, Denis treats about 1,000 children. “I’m very happy to be a Community Health Worker,” says Denis. “I work for the health of the community and I am trusted by them.”
Tatiana Mukankaka’s Story
When Tatiana was a young mother, she had a child that was sick and could not recover. Tatiana's second child, Jean started showing signs of malnutrition and Tatiana began to worry. Tatiana heard about a health program and quickly decided to get involved with it. She learned how to monitor child health and how to prevent basic illness. Jean gained 11 ounces in a few weeks and he was doing well.
Did you know?
-Rwanda is called "the land of a thousand hills" because of its mountainous and volcanic terrain
-Rwanda's rainforests are home to half of the 700 gorillas remaining in the world
-There is 11.7 million people living in Rwanda
-65% of Rwanda has access to clean water
-The life expectancy in Rwanda is 58 years
-77% of Rwanda lives on less than $1.25 a day
-1 million people overcame poverty between 2006 and 2011