On June 25, 2026, the National Child Development Agency (NCDA), in partnership with the European Union in Rwanda, commemorated Early Childhood Development (ECD) Day in Gatsibo District with a call to strengthen positive parenting as the foundation for children's holistic growth and development.

The event was held in Rwimbogo Sector, bringing together the NCDA Deputy Director General, Gilbert Munyemana; the European Union in Rwanda Team Leader for Economy and Governance, Vincent Laporte; the Gatsibo District Vice Mayor in charge of Social Affairs, Mukamana Marceline; development partners, local leaders, parents, caregivers and children.

As part of the celebration, officials visited Early Childhood Development centres to assess the delivery of integrated ECD services and interact with caregivers.

Speaking during the event, Vice Mayor Mukamana acknowledged the district's progress in child development while noting that malnutrition remains a challenge requiring sustained collective action.

"We shall strengthen collaboration with stakeholders and parents to raise awareness and ensure that children receive comprehensive care, particularly in addressing malnutrition and stunting," she said.

Vincent Laporte underscored the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

"The celebration of ECD Day reminds us that early childhood development requires continuous attention because the challenges facing young children are interconnected and cannot be addressed by one institution alone. When a child lacks proper nutrition, clean water or protection, the consequences extend far beyond the early years. This is why partnerships between government institutions, communities, schools, health services and families are essential," he said.

NCDA Deputy Director General commended development partners for their continued support in expanding quality ECD services, particularly for children with disabilities. He encouraged parents and communities to ensure that all children, including those with disabilities, have access to integrated Early Childhood Development services.

He noted that the ECD Day celebration formed part of Parenting Month (Ukwezi k'Uburere), observed under the theme "Raise Me Well, Let Me Grow and Thrive," which encourages parents and caregivers to prioritise nurturing care and positive parenting for the well-being of children, families and the nation's development.

"The Government of Rwanda, through NCDA and its partners, has made significant investments in early childhood development, particularly in the health sector. I commend community health workers for their invaluable services and urge all pregnant women to attend antenatal care services to give every child the best possible start in life," he said.

Munyemana further emphasised that Early Childhood Development begins within the family, calling on parents and caregivers to create safe, nurturing and responsive home environments while making child development an integral part of family planning and daily life.

During the event, through the European Union-funded Tubakuze Project, ECD centres received ECD kits  while children with disabilities were supported with  assistive devices.