ABOUT
US
Promoting dignity, freedom, and equality for women in Rwanda since 1997. A story of resilience, transformation, and community.
ROOTED IN
PURPOSE
Women for Women Rwanda’s journey began in 1997, in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Women were among those left facing profound loss, poverty, and uncertainty about the future.
What began as a response to that reality has grown into a commitment to helping women rebuild their lives with dignity, confidence, and independence, creating opportunities not only for themselves, but for their families and communities.
In 2021, we became a local Rwandan affiliate, continuing a journey rooted in supporting women to build stronger, more independent lives. Each year, more than 300 women aged 18 to 55 take part in our 12-month signature ‘Stronger Women, Stronger Nation’ program. In small groups, they meet every two weeks to learn practical skills, share experiences, and support one another as they work toward greater economic independence, confidence, and wellbeing.
A PATH OF TRANSFORMATION
1997
Our Beginning
Women for Women International (WfWI) began operations in Rwanda, responding to the devastating effects of the 1994 genocide of the Tutsis on vulnerable women and children.
2020
Legal Registration
Women for Women Rwanda (WfW-Rwanda) was created and legally registered as a national organization in Rwanda.
2021
Local Transition
WfW-Rwanda transitioned from WfWI as a local organization in Rwanda as an affiliate, taking full ownership of programs and operations.
Today
Growing Impact
Over 80,000 women served, 3,217+ VSLAs created, 500+ digitized savings groups, and 300+ women enrolled annually in our signature program.
300+
Women Enrolled Annually
LEARN, SHARE
& SUPPORT
Every year, more than 300 young mothers and women aged 18–55 years are enrolled in the WfW-Rwanda 12-month signature program where they meet bi-weekly in groups of 25 to learn, share and support one another. They receive capacity building in social skills and business training to generate income for their families.
GBV Prevention
Health & Wellness
Women's Leadership
Business Skills
Cooperative Building
Vocational Training
FOUR MAIN OUTCOME AREAS
Our programs are designed around four transformative pillars that drive lasting change in women's lives and their communities.
01
Earning & Saving Money
Building financial independence through cooperatives, VSLAs, and business skills training.
02
Improving Health & Well-Being
Comprehensive health and wellness education including GBV prevention and mental well-being.
03
Influencing Decisions
Empowering women to influence decisions in the home and community through leadership training.
04
Connecting to Networks
Building local and global networks for support, advocacy, and sustained growth.
We are always learning new approaches and strategies to stay effective and responsive to the needs of our communities.
SEVEN
DISTRICTS
Women for Women Rwanda (WfW-Rwanda) is a national organization created and legally registered in 2020, recently transitioned from Women for Women International that has been operating in Rwanda since 1997.
Nyaruguru
Southern Province
Muhanga
Southern Province
Kicukiro
Kigali City
Rwamagana
Eastern Province
Bugesera
Eastern Province
Gasabo
Kigali City
Kayonza
Eastern Province
Join OurCommunity
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