The five-day training, preceded by a Training of Trainers (ToT) session, brought together 1,722 caregivers from home-based ECD centers. It was organized by LODA Rwanda in collaboration with partners and financed by UNICEF Rwanda, with implementation support from Imbuto Foundation, NCDA, and REB.

The training aimed to equip caregivers with knowledge and practical skills to deliver integrated ECD services, including nutrition, health monitoring, early stimulation, and parental engagement. These services are essential in ensuring that children grow well physically, cognitively, and socially, laying a strong foundation for their future learning and wellbeing.

Speaking during the closing ceremony, the Mayor of Burera District Soline Mukamana, emphasized the importance of investing in early childhood as a pathway to sustainable development.

“When we invest in the early years of a child, we are investing in the future of our district and our country. The role of caregivers is critical in ensuring that every child is given the best start in life,” she said.

The training also comes at a critical time, as recent data indicate that 37.6% of children under five in Burera District experience stunting. This highlights the urgent need for strengthened interventions at community level.

The Division Manager of Local Government Strategic Planning Division at LODA, Mr. Maurice Nsabibaruta noted that improving the capacity of caregivers is key to addressing such challenges.

“This training is not just about building skills; it is about changing outcomes. Every improved service delivered in ECD centers contributes to reducing stunting and ensuring that children reach their full potential,” he said.

He further assured caregivers of continued support from LODA in strengthening home-based ECD services across the districts.

Participants expressed appreciation for the training, noting that it provided both a refresher and new knowledge to improve their daily work.

“We really needed this training. It reminded us of our responsibilities and gave us new skills that will help us better support the children in our care,” said one caregiver from Butaro Sector.