Introduction
The Gasanze Street Kids Rescued Project continues to stand as a powerful testimony to Comfort Rwanda’s commitment to restoring dignity, hope, and opportunity to vulnerable children, particularly former street children. In 2025, the project focused on holistic transformation, addressing not only immediate needs but also long-term development and self-reliance.
Our integrated approach encompasses health and nutrition, education, family reintegration, economic empowerment, and emotional and spiritual wellbeing. This report, prepared by our partners Comfort Rwanda, highlights the progress made throughout the year and is enriched by testimonies from the children themselves, demonstrating the real and lasting impact of the project.
HEALTH AND NUTRITION SUPPORT
During the year, several children fell ill and received timely medical care through the project. Children were taken to health facilities where they received proper treatment, follow-up care, and nutritional support to aid recovery.
As part of our nutrition programme, food support was also provided to all 79 families within the Gasanze Project, strengthening household food security and improving overall wellbeing.
Testimonies from Children Who Received Health Support:
Musifa
“I had an accident and broke my leg, and I spent five months in the hospital. I truly appreciate how the project paid all my hospital bills and provided nutritious meals during my stay. I am now well and able to walk properly again.”
Justine
“Over the year, I suffered from different illnesses, including malaria, a blood infection, and eye problems. I am very thankful to the project for supporting me and ensuring I received proper treatment.”
Pasifique
“I suffered from a severe toothache, and the project took me to the dentist where the tooth was removed. I am very grateful for the help I received.”
EDUCATION SUPPORT
Education remains a core pillar of the Gasanze Project, playing a critical role in breaking the cycle of poverty and preparing children for independent living.
In 2025, 73 children were supported through both formal and informal education pathways:
- 40 children attended Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes, gaining practical skills for self-reliance.
- 15 children were supported in secondary school, receiving school fees and learning materials.
- 18 children attended primary school and received all required educational support.
Beyond school fees, the project provided uniforms, scholastic materials, boarding fees, and close monitoring to ensure consistent attendance and strong academic performance.
Education Testimonies
Pasifique – 4th Position (70%)
“It is such a great joy to have all the school requirements provided, especially since I study in a boarding school. This motivates me to work even harder.”
Eliya – 3rd Position (76%)
“Having everything I need for school has always been a driving force for me to work hard and aim to be among the best performers.”
Osee – 4th Position (78.5%)
“Ranking fourth in a class of 50 students in Secondary Three has been possible because I do not worry about school fees. Knowing the project supports me gives me confidence and security.”
EMERGENCY HOUSING SUPPORT FOLLOWING GOVERNMENT DEMOLITIONS
During 2025 local authorities demolished houses built in wetlands and high-risk zones (mainly on the hillside) to protect residents from flooding and landslides. As a result, 12 families from the project were affected. Although the government provided limited compensation, it was insufficient and seven families from our programme lost their homes and were left without secure shelter. In response, the Gasanze Project intervened by supporting these families with rented accommodation, ensuring they had safe and stable places to live. This emergency support was critical in protecting the wellbeing and dignity of the children and their families, and it reflects our commitment to safeguarding vulnerable households during times of crisis.
The project also supported another three families with house rent assistance.
Testimonies on House Rent Support
Robert
“The project covers our house rent because no one at home can afford it. I feel happy to stay with my family and feel safe and encouraged.”
Emmanuel
“After our house was demolished, paying rent became very difficult. The project supported us when we could not manage on our own.”
Theogene
“I am thankful that the project supported my mother with house rent when she was unable to pay.”
FAMILY REINTEGRATION
Family reintegration remains one of the most important pillars of the Gasanze Project. We believe children thrive best in safe, loving family environments.
In 2025, the project achieved an exceptional milestone: 100% of children in the Gasanze Project are now living in safe family settings.
GRADUATION AND ECONOMIC INDEPENDENCE
The year 2025 marked the highest number of graduates in the history of the Gasanze Project. A total of 42 beneficiaries successfully graduated through TVET training, business start-up support, family support programmes, and government initiatives. These graduates are now equipped with skills, confidence, and opportunities for self-sustainability.
Graduate Testimonies
Amani
“My life is very different from when I joined the project. I am now engaged in crop farming and able to provide for my basic needs.”
Patrick
“After finishing school, I trained as a driver and obtained Category B and C licences. I now work for a cleaning company and support myself and my family.”
Gilbert
“Before joining the project, life was extremely difficult. I returned to school and gained carpentry and construction skills. Today I earn a living independently and volunteer at the Comfort Rwanda Transformation Centre. In 2017 I was a street child at the Gasanze dump, but now I work and live with dignity.”
DRUG USE AND POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR
Drug use among former street children has significantly reduced. Those who graduated show positive behaviour and social responsibility. Some are drivers, business owners, and one graduate, Samuel, is now married and raising a family responsibly.
Since the project began in 2017, children who were once influential in bringing others to the streets have been transformed. There are now very few children at the dump site. As children graduate, new vulnerable children are welcomed into the project.
CONNECTION THROUGH SPONSOR LETTERS
Letter communication remains a strong emotional bridge between children and their sponsors.
Testimonies
Eliya
“I feel joy whenever I receive a letter from Mama Tina. I feel loved and remembered.”
Olivier
“When I receive a letter from my sponsor, I feel valued and encouraged.”
Ebenezer
“I am new to the project, but sponsor letters make me feel part of a family.”
NEW PROJECT MEMBERS
In 2025, 38 new children joined the Gasanze Project to replace those who graduated. All received sponsors promptly, enabling them to experience care, stability, and belonging from the start.
SUMMER GROUP VISITS
Groups from Comfort International visited Rwanda in 2025, strengthening relationships through cultural exchange, friendship, and shared activities.
Testimonies
Kelia
“I love meeting new people. It strengthens me and motivates me to work hard.”
Eliya
“When my family was hopeless, God sent people to stand with us. These visits feel like meeting my real family.”
