Community In Rwanda Research Articles

Characterization of Yield and Physico-Chemical Parameters of Selected Wild Indigenous Fruits in Rwanda

A study was carried out to assess the physico-chemical characteristics of wild fruits: Myrianthus holstii and Garcinia buchananii, consumed by rural communities in Rwanda. Although the species have been prioritized for domestication in the country, very little information has been documented on their yield potential, morphological traits, and nutritional compositions. Data were collected from nine fruiting trees for each species in the Bugesera and Nyamagabe districts. All fruits per tree were counted and 10 fruits were harvested for characterization. The proximate composition, vitamins, and minerals were analyzed using Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) methods. Analyses of inferential statistics were performed to detect differences in means among the fruits from different populations. The highest yield (279 kg/tree) for M. holstii was recorded in the Musebeya population while the highest (15.12 kg/tree) for G. buchananii was recorded in the Juru populations. The quantities of vitamins A and C in M. holstii fruits ranged from 0.92 mg/100 g to 0.93 mg/100 g and from 19.22 mg/100 g to 19.94 mg/100 g, respectively. The quantities of vitamins A and C in G. buchananii fruits ranged from 0.56 mg/100 g to 0.95 mg/100 g and 33.82 mg/100 g to 34.84 mg/100 g, respectively. The most abundant mineral element recorded in this study was iron (15.95 mg/100 g) found in the M. holstii species and contributing 159.5% of the recommended daily allowance. The results obtained in this work suggest the potential value of G. buchananii and M. holstii for the development of novel products in the food industry. The findings also offer opportunities for tree selection to support their domestication and to reduce pressure on the remaining population in the wild.

VILLAGE SAVINGS AND LENDING ACTIVITIES (VSLAs) AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION OF COMMUNITY MEMBERS IN RWANDA, A CASE OF MASAKA SECTOR IN KICUKIRO DISTRICT

This project aimed to assess the impact of village savings and lending associations (VSLAs) on socio-economic development of local community in Rwanda, with a particular focus on Masaka Sector of Kicukiro District. More specifically, this project aimed of assessing the VSLAs income generating activities or their main sources of savings in the local community; evaluating the VSLAs types of savings in the local community; evaluating the VSLAs types of lending in the local community; and comparing the socio-economic transformation of the community members before and after joining VSLAs. In the research design, the researcher adopted a descriptive approach and employed a specific case study approach of Masaka Sector in Kicukiro District. For study population, the total study population was 258 members of VSLAs. For sampling, the total sample of 221 was calculated using random sampling technique and for data collection, the researcher used questionnaires and interview guides and for data analysis, the researcher used SPSS. The results showed that VSLAs significantly impacted income sources, prominently empowering agricultural activities (mean = 0.368), while showing moderate influence on trading (mean = 0.319) and lesser impact on handcrafts and tailoring. The results also showed that VSLAs’ savings mechanisms exhibit distinct impacts: emergency and long-term savings display substantial, consistent influences (means = 0.282, 0.395) with differing member engagements. The practical suggestions proposed were that Masaka sector should establish connections with other initiatives, like VUP and BDF, to enhance the socio-economic progress of rural communities. KEYWORDS: Economic development, Income generating activities, social development, types of lending and types of savings

Mosquito Microbiomes of Rwanda: Characterizing Mosquito Host and Microbial Communities in the Land of a Thousand Hills.

Mosquitoes are a complex nuisance around the world and tropical countries bear the brunt of the burden of mosquito-borne diseases. Rwanda has had success in reducing malaria and some arboviral diseases over the last few years, but still faces challenges to elimination. By building our understanding of in situ mosquito communities in Rwanda at a disturbed, human-occupied site and at a natural, preserved site, we can build our understanding of natural mosquito microbiomes toward the goal of implementing novel microbial control methods. Here, we examined the composition of collected mosquitoes and their microbiomes at two diverse sites using Cytochrome c Oxidase I sequencing and 16S V4 high-throughput sequencing. The majority (36 of 40 species) of mosquitoes captured and characterized in this study are the first-known record of their species for Rwanda but have been characterized in other nations in East Africa. We found significant differences among mosquito genera and among species, but not between mosquito sexes or catch method. Bacteria of interest for arbovirus control, Asaia, Serratia, and Wolbachia, were found in abundance at both sites and varied greatly by species.

Role of Information and Communication Technologies in Promoting Financial Inclusion in Rural African Communities in Rwanda

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate role of information and communication technologies in promoting financial inclusion in rural African Communities
 Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.
 Findings: This transformation has led to increased savings, facilitated seamless payments, and expanded access to credit, contributing to economic growth, poverty reduction, and enhanced financial resilience in rural communities. Nonetheless, persistent challenges such as limited infrastructure and digital literacy gaps underscore the need for ongoing efforts to fully harness the potential of ICTs, making them a crucial driver of rural development and inclusive growth in Rwanda.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Diffusion of Innovation Theory, Social Capital Theory & Resource-Based Theory may be used to anchor future studies on role of information and communication technologies in promoting financial inclusion in rural African Communities. Collaborate with technology providers to develop and deploy ICT solutions tailored to the specific needs and preferences of rural African communities. Policymakers should ensure that regulations support innovation, competition, and consumer protection.

Smart Micro Grid Energy System Management Based on Optimum Running Cost for Rural Communities in Rwanda

Smart Micro Grid Energy System Management Based on Optimum Running Cost for Rural Communities in Rwanda

Social exclusion of the SGM community in Rwanda: public perceptions and lived experiences of SGM

Abstract Background Sexual and gender minorities (SGM) are “othered” from society. This study quantifies and explores the process of “othering” of SGM Rwandans through the lens of those who “other” and those who experience “othering.” Methods We conducted a mixed methods study surveying 499 & conducting focus groups with 59 SGM. We surveyed 1,254 & conducted 16 interviews with non-SGM. Among non-SGM, the outcome was a continuous variable measuring attitudes toward SGM. Among SGM, the continuous dependent variable was from 13 questions measuring discrimination across life contexts (e.g., work, health). We conducted adjusted linear regressions to explore predictors of “othering” among non-SGM and associations between discrimination and SGM identity among SGM. We report beta coefficients and 95% confidence intervals. We used thematic analysis to analyze the qualitative data to examine the context and nuance of “othering” and its impacts on SGM. Results The average score for SGM support among the public was 12 (SD = 4.7) (20 is more discrimination). As compared to those who knew zero SGM, persons who knew 5+ had scores that were 1.3 points lower (95% CI -2.2, -0.5), while the score was lower for those that knew 1-5 (-0.2), it was not significant (95% CI -0.8, 0.5). Among SGM, 67% experienced discrimination. In adjusted models, we found that transgender & non-straight participants experienced more discrimination. The qualitative findings found that “othering” occurs in many contexts, such as housing, employment, healthcare, and virtually, but trans persons are most impacted. One participant shared, “A transgender [person] may face more discrimination than a gay based on their physical appearance.” Conclusions SGM Rwandans are widely “othered” with negative implications for their ability to live authentically and participate in everyday experiences. However, results indicated that if non-SGM persons were acquainted with LGBTQ+ community members, discrimination is lessened.

Community Health Worker-Led Cardiovascular Disease Risk Screening and Referral for Care and Further Management in Rural and Urban Communities in Rwanda.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a global health issue. Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are facing early CVD-related morbidity. Early diagnosis and treatment are an effective strategy to tackle CVD. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of community health workers (CHWs) to screen and identify persons with high risks of CVD in the communities, using a body mass index (BMI)-based CVD risk assessment tool, and to refer them to the health facility for care and follow-up. This was an action research study conducted in rural and urban communities, conveniently sampled in Rwanda. Five villages were randomly selected from each community, and one CHW per each selected village was identified and trained to conduct CVD risk screening using a BMI-based CVD risk screening tool. Each CHW was assigned to screen 100 fellow community members (CMs) for CVD risk and to refer those with CVD risk scores ≥10 (either moderate or high CVD risk) to a health facility for care and further management. Descriptive statistics with Pearson's chi-square test were used to assess any differences between rural and urban study participants vis-à-vis the key studied variables. Spearman's rank coefficient and Cohen's Kappa coefficient were mainly used to compare the CVD risk scoring from the CHWs with the CVD risk scoring from the nurses. Community members aged 35 to 74 years were included in the study. The participation rates were 99.6% and 99.4% in rural and urban communities, respectively, with female predominance (57.8% vs. 55.3% for rural and urban, p-value: 0.426). Of the participants screened, 7.4% had a high CVD risk (≥20%), with predominance in the rural community compared to the urban community (8.0% vs. 6.8%, p-value: 0.111). Furthermore, the prevalence of moderate or high CVD risk (≥10%) was higher in the rural community than in the urban community (26.7% vs. 21.1%, p-value: 0.111). There was a strong positive correlation between CHW-based CVD risk scoring and nurse-based CVD risk scoring in both rural and urban communities, 0.6215 (p-value < 0.001) vs. 0.7308 (p-value = 0.005). In regard to CVD risk characterization, the observed agreement to both the CHW-generated 10-year CVD risk assessment and the nurse-generated 10-year CVD risk assessment was characterized as "fair" in both rural and urban areas at 41.6% with the kappa statistic of 0.3275 (p-value < 001) and 43.2% with kappa statistic of 0.3229 (p-value =0.057), respectively. In Rwanda, CHWs can screen their fellow CMs for CVD risk and link those with high CVD risk to the healthcare facility for care and follow-up. CHWs could contribute to the prevention of CVDs through early diagnosis and early treatment at the bottom of the health system.

Language Planning Mechanisms towards Kiswahili as a Trade Language of the East African Community in Rwanda

Language Planning Mechanisms towards Kiswahili as a Trade Language of the East African Community in Rwanda

Association patterns in a high-elevation chimpanzee community in Rwanda

Investment in social interaction and affiliative behaviour is often related to variation in sex-specific dispersal patterns among species but can also vary within species in response to local environmental conditions and feeding competition. Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) association patterns have been studied primarily in low and mid-elevation tropical forests. This study adds to our understanding of association patterns in chimpanzees by presenting the first data on association patterns in a high-elevation population at Nyungwe in equatorial Rwanda. Using data on co-occurrence in social parties (party association) and calculating gregariousness indices, we quantified levels of associations among age-sex classes relative to food (fruit) distribution and the presence of oestrous females. Overall, adult females in Nyungwe are less gregarious than males. Female but not male gregariousness increased when feeding on clumped foods, indicating that resource characteristics impact female association tendencies more intensely than males. Despite high elevation forests representing a habitat with relatively fewer fruit resources for chimpanzees, at an edge of range location, we found that gregariousness patterns were driven by similar factors as those in mid and low elevation chimpanzee populations.

The Livelihood of Artisanal and Small-Scale Miners and Awareness of the Use of 3T Minerals in Rwanda-A Case Study in the Rutsiro District: A Qualitative Assessment.

This article examines the impact of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) on livelihood in mining communities in Rwanda (Rutsiro) where wolframite and coltan are mined. The paper discusses the development of ASM and other entrepreneur activities, in particular agriculture. With ASM activities, there is environmental degradation on the one hand but also an improvement in the well-being of the local population on the other. The 3T (tin, tungsten, tantalum) minerals extracted by ASM are used in the electronics industry for products such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, which are mainly consumed in the developed world. Based on questionnaires and structured research with miners, it was determined how ASM affects their lives, or whether there is a deterioration or improvement in their well-being. The research builds on previous field research in Rwanda. Because of mining, communities in the mining areas have access to health care, they can pay tuition fees, insurance, etc. On the other hand, the lives of miners are endangered by respiratory diseases, accidents in mines, landslides in mining areas, and other negative environmental impacts. The extraction of these minerals, however, may lead to a worse quality of life for the miners responsible for the extraction in developing countries. This different view is also illustrated by the fact that miners themselves often do not know what 3T minerals are used for. ASM benefits miners from an economic perspective but may worsen their quality of life due to unsuitable working conditions. This study covers a broader understanding of socioeconomic impacts of ASM and tries to point out the lack of awareness about the mining of minerals important for the daily use of modern technologies. This article would like to contribute to the larger debate about the lack of awareness of the origin of 3T minerals.

Techno-economic analysis of a PV system with a battery energy storage system for small households: A case study in Rwanda

Due to the inadequacy of distribution networks in developing countries, especially in small residential areas, there are frequent interruptions in the electrical energy provided by the grid. This problem negatively affects the life quality and productivity of the people living in these regions. This problem can be overcome by integrating BESS-supported renewable energy sources into the distribution system. These distributed energy resources contribute significantly to providing energy directly to consumers. On a small scale, such a system is supported by the grid, when possible, to ensure energy supply continuity. This study presents a techno-economic analysis, using PV*SOL simulation software, of a grid-connected solar PV system with BESS that is used to supply a small residential community in Rwanda, Muhanga district, Shyogwe sector. The consumers were a group of one hundred households around a wetland valley. The energy generated from the solar PV system was used to supply home appliances and a water pumping system for agricultural activities. The simulation results showed that the annual energy requirement is 82.34 MWh with a peak load of 30.4 kW. The simulation results also revealed that a PV system, with an installed capacity of 57.33 kWp integrated with a BESS of 89.2 kWh storage capacity, can supply the load with own power consumption of 68.65%, a level of self-sufficiency of 64.38%, and a performance ratio of 86.05% when the desired ratio is set to 110% with a year as the reference period. The financial analysis demonstrated a return on assets of 9.14% and an amortization period of 9.65 years. These results indicate that the proposed method is technically and economically feasible for use in addressing the issue of electrical power outages in developing countries.

An Unaccountable Love

What does a consideration of the place of grace in the therapeutic relationship have to add to our understanding of the healing process? This article explores the experience of bereavement and healing in the aftermath of loss among members of a Catholic Charismatic community in Rwanda. Considering cases in which divine healing is experienced as either having succeeded or having failed, I argue that the healing process involves acts of sacrifice and gifting, taking place between the mourner, God, and social others, and that the central sacrificial gesture constituting this process is the sacrifice of the self as lived prior to loss. I suggest that in order to understand gifting and sacrifice’s therapeutic potential, we must read them as acts anchored in grace or gratuity.

Effect of Early Childhood Education on Socio-Economic Transformation of Communities in Rwanda

The effective provision of basic education in Rwanda increases the competition level among graduates which promotionally improves the socio-economic transformation of communities. The purpose of this study therefore was to establish the effect of early childhood education on socio-economic transformation of communities in Nyamasheke district in Rwanda. The target population was 368 respondents that provided the sample size of 192 got using Yamane formula. Interview guide and questionnaire were used as data collection instruments. Correlation research design was also employed. The study findings revealed there is 31% of accessibility of ECE able to affect the level of socio-economic transformation of communities as indicated by the R square = .310 and the remaining 69% of socio-economic transformation of communities can be affected by other factors. However, it was found that, there is a statistically significant moderate relationship between accessibility ECE and socio-economic transformation of communities (P=.000 and r = .555). The study recommended the ministry of education which represents the government in the sector of Education should provide the adequate infrastructures of ECE schools in Nyamasheke district to improve and make easy accessibility of ECE in the area thus also increase the literacy level. The non-governmental organizations should invest more in ECE of Nyamasheke district in order to develop youth who are competent and able to compete at the labour market. Keywords: Early Childhood Education, Socio-economic transformation, Communities

The Relationship Between Sexual Behavior Stigma and Depression Among Men Who have Sex with Men and Transgender Women in Kigali, Rwanda: a Cross-sectional Study.

To evaluate the role of sexual behavior stigma as a determinant of depressive symptoms among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TGW) in Kigali, Rwanda. MSM/TGW aged ≥18 years were recruited using respondent-driven sampling (RDS) between March-August, 2018. Mental health was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Sexual behavior stigma from friends and family, healthcare workers, and community members was assessed using a validated instrument. Multinomial logistic regression models were used to determine the association between sexual behavior stigma and depressive symptoms and depression. Secondary analyses further compared depression and depressive symptoms among MSM and TGW. Among the 736 participants included, 14% (106/736) identified as TGW. Depression 8.9% (RDS-adjusted, 7.6%; 95% CI, 4.6-10.6) and mild/moderate symptoms of depression 26.4% (RDS-adjusted, 24.1%; 95% CI, 19.4-28.7) were common and higher among TGW compared to MSM (p < 0.001). Anticipated (41%), perceived (36%), and enacted (45%) stigmas were highly prevalent, and were also significantly higher among TGW (p < 0.001). In multivariable RDS-adjusted analysis, anticipated (relative risk ratio (RRR), 1.88; 95% CI, 1.11-3.19) and perceived (RRR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.12-3.79) stigmas were associated with a higher prevalence of depressive symptoms. Anticipated (RRR, 4.78; 95% CI, 1.74-13.13) and enacted (RRR, 3.09; 95% CI, 1.61-5.93) stigmas were also associated with a higher prevalence of depression. In secondary analyses, the significant differences between MSM and TGW were lost after adjusting for stigma. These data demonstrate a high burden of depressive symptoms and depression among MSM/TGW in Kigali. Conceptually, stigma is a likely antecedent of mental health stress among MSM and TGW suggesting the potential utility of scaling up stigma mitigation interventions to improve the quality of life and mental health outcomes among sexual and gender minority communities in Rwanda.

Standalone and Minigrid-Connected Solar Energy Systems for Rural Application in Rwanda: An In Situ Study

In recent years, several factors such as environmental pollution, declining fossil fuel supplies, and product price volatility have led to most countries investing in renewable energy sources. In particular, the development of photovoltaic (PV) microgrids, which can be standalone, off-grid connected or grid-connected, is seen as one of the most viable solutions that could help developing countries such as Rwanda to minimize problems related to energy shortage. The country’s current electrification rate is estimated to be 59.7%, and hydropower remains Rwanda’s primary source of energy (with over 43.8% of its total energy supplies) despite advances in solar technology. In order to provide affordable electricity to low-income households, the government of Rwanda has pledged to achieve 48% of its overal electrification goals from off-grid solar systems by 2024. In this paper, we develop a cost-effective power generation model for a solar PV system to power households in rural areas in Rwanda at a reduced cost. A performance comparison between a single household and a microgrid PV system is conducted by developing efficient and low-cost off-grid PV systems. The battery model for these two systems is 1.6 kWh daily load with 0.30 kW peak load for a single household and 193.05 kWh/day with 20.64 kW peak load for an off-grid PV microgrid. The hybrid optimization model for electric renewable (HOMER) software is used to determine the system size and its life cycle cost including the levelized cost of energy (LCOE) and net present cost (NPC) for each of these power generation models. The analysis shows that the optimal system’s NPC, LCOE, electricity production, and operating cost are estimated to 1,166,898.0 USD, 1.28 (USD/kWh), 221, and 715.0 (kWh per year, 37,965.91 (USD per year), respectively, for microgrid and 9284.4(USD), 1.23 (USD/kWh), and 2426.0 (kWh per year, 428.08 (USD per year), respectively, for a single household (standalone). The LCOE of a standalone PV system of an independent household was found to be cost-effective compared with a microgrid PV system that supplies electricity to a rural community in Rwanda.

Circulation of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli of Pandemic Sequence Types 131, 648, and 410 Among Hospitalized Patients, Caregivers, and the Community in Rwanda.

Multi-drug resistant (MDR), gram-negative Enterobacteriaceae, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) limit therapeutic options and increase morbidity, mortality, and treatment costs worldwide. They pose a serious burden on healthcare systems, especially in developing countries like Rwanda. Several studies have shown the effects caused by the global spread of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing E. coli. However, limited data is available on transmission dynamics of these pathogens and the mobile elements they carry in the context of clinical and community locations in Sub-Saharan Africa. Here, we examined 120 ESBL-producing E. coli strains from patients hospitalized in the University Teaching Hospital of Butare (Rwanda), their attending caregivers as well as associated community members and livestock. Based on whole-genome analysis, the genetic diversification and phylogenetics were assessed. Moreover, the content of carried plasmids was characterized and investigated for putative transmission among strains, and for their potential role as drivers for the spread of antibiotic resistance. We show that among the 30 different sequence types (ST) detected were the pandemic clonal lineages ST131, ST648 and ST410, which combine high-level antimicrobial resistance with virulence. In addition to the frequently found resistance genes blaCTX–M–15, tet(34), and aph(6)-Id, we identified csg genes, which are required for curli fiber synthesis and thus biofilm formation. Numerous strains harbored multiple virulence-associated genes (VAGs) including pap (P fimbriae adhesion cluster), fim (type I fimbriae) and chu (Chu heme uptake system). Furthermore, we found phylogenetic relationships among strains from patients and their caregivers or related community members and animals, which indicates transmission of pathogens. Also, we demonstrated the presence and potential transfer of identical/similar ESBL-plasmids in different strains from the Rwandan setting and when compared to an external plasmid. This study highlights the circulation of clinically relevant, pathogenic ESBL-producing E. coli among patients, caregivers and the community in Rwanda. Combining antimicrobial resistance with virulence in addition to the putative exchange of mobile genetic elements among bacterial pathogens poses a significant risk around the world.

Field Feasibility and Acceptability Testing of Action-Based Psychosocial Reconciliation Approach in a Post-Genocide Rural Community in Rwanda

Background: Interpersonal/psychosocial reconciliation is highly prioritized in post-Genocide Rwanda. Despite the need, empirically sound strategies have been extremely scarce. The proposed study is a segment of a broader services-research effort to develop, evaluate, and implement a novel and empirically supported interpersonal/psychosocial reconciliation approach termed Action-Based Psychosocial Reconciliation Approach (ABPRA), that is authentically founded on Rwandan people’s lived experiences of reconciliation.&#x0D; Methods/Design: The proposed study consists of two major steps. The purpose of step 1 is to develop and empirically validate a set of outcome measures, termed the psychosocial reconciliation impact scales module (PRISM) to assess beneficial impacts native to ABPRA. We will employ hermeneutic phenomenological analysis (van Manen, 2016) of pilot interview data to generate item pool. The purpose of step 2 is to field-test the delivery of ABPRA in Rwanda to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention, exploring and illuminating potential procedural uncertainties in conducting a larger-scale evaluation of ABPRA. We will follow the guidance on pilot study by Thabane et al. (2010).&#x0D; Discussion: The study is an essential step to advance the project to a full-scale experimental evaluation of ABPRA. The project holds the possibility of making available and accessible, an empirically supported and meaningful approach to conflict resolution, genocide/war prevention and peacebuilding in Rwanda and other war/conflict-affected regions around the globe.

Dance/Movement as Resilience, Unity and Community in Rwanda: Shared Experience over Difference

Growing together toward a more socially just experience of humanity is of profound concern within communities across the nation, and is of essential relevance within the dance/movement therapy community, in particular. Acknowledging individual difference is pervasive. However, rationale for shifting the focus to “shared experience” and its benefits is highlighted in this paper. Dance in Rwanda, and its cultural relevance to resilience and connection before and after the 1994 genocide, illustrates the invaluable healing impact of this relationally based approach. A service project that encompasses dance/movement therapy and other body mind strategies for widows of genocide will be described as a salient example of the efficacy for developing resilience, unity, and connection.

Kangaroo mother care in the community: practices in southern Rwanda

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines recommend practicing KMC (Kangaroo Mother Care) continuously for weeks after discharge of preterm newborns. However, little is known about KMC practices in the community in Rwanda and other African countries.Therefore, this study sought to assess KMC practices in Southern Rwanda, primarily after hospitalization and identify barriers to KMC in the community.Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed with data collected through a survey among 124 caregivers of preterm infants and Community Health Workers. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences SPSS version 22 was used to analyze the data.Results: Among all caregivers interviewed, 86.7% confirmed that they practiced KMC, both in the hospital (KABUTARE District Hospital) as well as after discharge, but there is a large variation in practice time and place. KMC is practiced more during daytime. Working in the fields and lack of support to the caregivers are reported most frequently as barriers to practice KMC in the community.Conclusion: KMC-practice is still sub-optimal in Rwanda. Special attention should be directed towards KMCpractice at night and towards the reported obstacles of practicing KMC in the community, e.g. working in the field, lack of support and equipment, difficulties to sleep and health problems.Keywords: Kangaroo Mother Care - Follow-up - Preterm infants – Rwanda

Developing the capacity of education local leaders for sustaining professional learning communities in Rwanda

Constructing school leaders as autonomous professionals through management and leadership training constitutes the first step to releasing their potential to improve school quality. Despite major gains by the Ministry of education in Rwanda, particularly training and recruitment of teachers and introduction of a coordination system to ensure professional development and management of teachers, the education sector is still challenged to ensure that (head) teachers have the capacity to lead and deliver the new competence based curriculum in schools. In this paper, we explore how a partnership established in 2014 between governmental and nongovernmental institutions led to the development and implementation of certified Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programs for the Rwandan education sector and present some preliminary findings. We apply the Kirkpatrick evaluation of training framework to present the different results that the CPD programs have brought about at the learning and behaviour change level. Data were composed of different monitoring and evaluation outputs and training assessments that have been produced by the program so far including focus group discussions and pre- and post-surveys on knowledge, attitudes and practices. The partnership has enabled Leaders in Education including Sector education officers, head (deputy) teachers, school based mentors and tutors from teacher training colleges to acquire new competencies for leading school as well as managing and implementing CPD activities at the sector and school levels. Furthermore, the initiated partnership which started with primary schools in 6 districts has grown and expanded to other partnerships with new development partners to upscale the program at secondary school level in 14 districts. This led us to suggest that the same initiatives could be replicated by other partners to enhance professional development of leaders in education in Rwanda or any other country.