Community-Based Inclusive Development (CBID) in Huye and Bugesera

In order to support the government of Rwanda achieve the childcare reform. There was a launch of “Let us raise them in the families” program and Chance for Childhood were recruited to support the government to help support children with disabilities get the services they need in their communities. To start, CfC screened and identified children with disabilities in Huye and Bugesera districts of Rwanda, many children were referred to essential service providers to access specialized care. However, only 40% of these referrals were successful. This low success rate revealed significant barriers to accessing consistent and effective rehabilitation services for children with disabilities. In response, Chance for Childhood established 146 Parent Support Groups and 138 Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) sites within the affected communities, bringing services closer to families. Parents and frontline community workers were trained using a locally developed CBR handbook, equipping them with practical skills to support children’s development and rehabilitation at the community level. This community-based approach has had a transformative impact on the lives of children with disabilities. To date, 256 children have successfully graduated from rehabilitation services and transitioned into early childhood development (ECD) centres, while others have enrolled in primary school. These outcomes demonstrate improved functional abilities, increased independence, and greater confidence among the children. In addition, the initiative has strengthened inclusion, allowing children to actively participate in family and community life, where they are increasingly recognized for their potential rather than their limitations. To further support dignity and wellbeing, inclusive latrines have been constructed, enabling children with disabilities to maintain proper hygiene andScreening and identification of children with disabilities in Huye and Bugesera districts revealed significant needs, leading to referrals to various service providers. However, with only 40% of referrals successful, many children were left without consistent access to rehabilitation and support services. This gap prompted Chance for Childhood to adopt a more community-driven approach through the establishment of 146 Parent Support Groups and 138 Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) sites. These platforms empowered parents and trained community frontline workers, using a locally developed CBR handbook, to deliver rehabilitation services directly within their communities. The impact of this approach has been remarkable. Community-based rehabilitation has strengthened the capacity of families to actively support their children’s development, fostering greater independence and inclusion. As a result, 256 children with disabilities have successfully graduated from rehabilitation programmes and transitioned into Early Childhood Development centres, while others have progressed into primary schools. This shift demonstrates improved functional abilities and increased readiness for learning among these children.