It was started by by volunteers who felt the passion and need to help vulnerable youths especially young underprivileged school going children.
Over the years, TIP evolved, and today, SOLIDACT stands as a legally registered nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting vulnerable children in Rwanda.
The Organization is led by a Council with Rosette Murigande as the Chairperson, Pascaline Umutesi, as the Deputy, a team of advisors, the secretary and treasurer.
Through a comprehensive approach that addresses education, health, and community support, SOLIDACT is making a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.
From Vision to Reality
The SOLIDACT Foundation's story began with a simple, yet profound goal: to support vulnerable children, particularly in their education and development.
What started as the Tubakunde Initiative Program under EPCA quickly gained momentum as the founders recognized the immense need for structured support for children facing various socio-economic challenges.
"In 2022, we started small, sponsoring just a few students," recalls Jean Gakwaya, the Executive Secretary of SOLIDACT. "Our efforts have since expanded, and are now supporting eight students across different regions. This growth was driven by our unwavering belief that every child deserves a chance to succeed, regardless of their circumstances."
As TIP's impact grew, so did the vision of its founders. In 2024, the initiative was formalized through the establishment of SOLIDACT Foundation, a nonprofit organization with a clear mission: to provide holistic support for vulnerable children and youth, fostering their welfare, education, and socio-economic development.
The foundation's vision is ambitious yet attainableâ€"to create a world where every child and youth from vulnerable families is empowered to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.
Impact on the Ground: Education, Health, and Community Support
SOLIDACT'S commitment to making a difference is evident in the scope and depth of its work. In the academic year 2024-2025, the foundation plans to extend its support to 59 more vulnerable children from Kagarama and Bumbogo Sectors in Gasabo district, bringing the total number of supported children close to 150.
These children receive more than just basic educational materials; they are provided with the tools they need to thrive.
"Education is the cornerstone of our support, but we know that it's not enough on its own," Gakwaya explains. "That's why we also focus on health and community support, ensuring that these children and their families have the resources they need to build better futures."
In 2024, SOLIDACT intends to distribute essential school supplies such as notebooks, pens, uniforms, and shoes the children they support, ensuring they had everything necessary to start the school year prepared.
Additionally, the foundation paid for community health insurance for the children and their families. This support not only alleviates the financial burden on these families but also ensures that the children can focus on their education without worrying about healthcare costs.
The impact extends beyond education and health. In August 2023, the foundation demonstrated its commitment to community support by providing aid to 164 families
affected by devastating floods in Nyundo Sector.
The assistance included the distribution of food, kitchen utensils, cleaning materials, and shoes. Additionally, in partnership with Umurenge SACCO-Nyundo, they provided collateral for small business owners affected by the floods, helping them rebuild their lives and businesses.
"We believe that supporting a child also means supporting their family and community," says Gakwaya. "When a family is strong, the child is more likely to succeed."
Building for the Future: The Recreation Center of Excellence
As SOLIDACT continues to grow, it is also looking towards the future with ambitious plans to expand its reach and impact. One of the cornerstone projects on the horizon is the creation of a Recreation Center of Excellence in Nyundo Sector, in Rubavu district.
This center will serve as a hub for holistic development, offering a wide range of activities and services designed to support the physical, mental, and cultural growth of the children under their care.
"The Recreation Center will be more than just a place for academic support," Gakwaya explains. "It will be a comprehensive environment where children can thrive, both physically and mentally."
The center will feature state-of-the-art multi-sport facilities, including a basketball court and a multi-purpose field for football and volleyball. These facilities will not only promote physical fitness but also encourage teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking.
In addition to sports, the center will offer a variety of cultural and creative activities, such as traditional Rwandan dance and music workshops, art and craft classes, and storytelling sessions that celebrate Rwanda's rich history and heritage.
"Our goal is to create a space where children can explore their talents, connect with their culture, and develop the skills they need to succeed in the future," says Gakwaya.
Monique Nyiransengiyumva, the Executive Secretary of Nyundo Sector says that these initiatives by SOLIDAID provided youths with the tools to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
'These developments provide adequate facilities and space for children to focus on their development utilizing all opportunities to get a bright future,' she said.
A Call to Action: Join the Journey
As SolidAct looks to the future, it is true that the foundation's success will depend on the support and involvement of the community. Gakwaya emphasizes that there are many ways to contribute to the foundation's mission, whether through financial support, volunteering, or simply sharing ideas.
"We invite anyone who is passionate about making a difference to join us," he says. "Together, we can build a brighter future for these children and their families."
For those interested in supporting, SOLIDACT can be reached at +250788303395.
A Legacy of Hope and Empowerment
The SOLIDACT Foundation is more than just an organization; it is a lifeline for vulnerable children in Rwanda. Through its comprehensive approach to education, health, and community support, opportunities for children to thrive and build better futures are created.
As the foundation continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to its mission of empowerment and hope, ensuring that every child has the chance to reach their full potential and contribute positively to society.
With ambitious plans for the future, including the creation of the Recreation Center of Excellence, SOLIDACT is poised to make an even greater impact in the years to come. The foundation's work is a testament to the power of collective action and the belief that, together, a world where every child has the opportunity to succeed can be created today.
Sam K Nkurunziza
Source : https://en.igihe.com/social/article/solidarity-in-action-a-lifeline-for-rwanda-s-vulnerable-youth
