The National Child Development Agency (NCDA) and the Education Outcomes Fund (EOF) have launched a new outcomes-based financing programme for early childhood care and education.

Dubbed "Nkuza Neza," the $13 million initiative is designed to boost the quality and inclusivity of early learning for children.

The four-year programme links government funding to real, measurable progress in child development placing results and equity at the centre of Rwanda’s early education system.

Speaking at the launching event on October 29, 2025, NCDA Director General, Ingabire Assumpta emphasized that the “Nkuza Neza” programme represents an innovative approach to development financing, one that links funding to measurable results rather than traditional funding models.

“Through rigorous monitoring and evaluation, the programme will generate actionable evidence on what works in early learning, parenting support, and cross-sector coordination” she said.

DG Ingabire said, every component from activities and tools to caregiver skills will be assessed to inform national policy, guide investments, and shape ECD facilities across Rwanda.

Amel Karboul, CEO of the Education Outcomes Fund, said that the programme shows what is possible when government leadership is combined with radical partnership and bold innovation.

“Rwanda is turning early childhood education policy into real-world progress. Outcomes finance is no longer an experiment. It is a proven, scalable model for lasting change,” Karboul said.

Supported by the Lego Foundation, the 4-year initiative will reach 25,000 children aged 3 to 5 nationwide, ensuring inclusion for children with disabilities through enrolment, upgrading ECD facilities’ infrastructure to meet accessibility needs, build caregiver capacity and strengthen referral pathways.