From November 19 to December 20, 2024, Heal the World Community Development (HWCD) embarked on a transformative journey to address one of the most pressing yet often overlooked challenges in Rwanda—mental health. The IWANGE Program 2024, aptly themed #MindMatters, brought together communities, schools, and leaders in a concerted effort to raise awareness, foster understanding, and provide support for mental well-being.
This month-long initiative not only highlighted the importance of mental health but also demonstrated HWCD’s commitment to building resilient, empowered communities.
Why Mental Health Matters
In Rwanda, mental health issues, especially in rural areas, often remain unaddressed due to stigma, lack of resources, and limited awareness. Through the IWANGE Program, HWCD sought to bridge these gaps by equipping communities with knowledge, tools, and access to mental health support. This mission aligns with HWCD’s broader goal of fostering a healthier and more compassionate society.
Key Highlights of the IWANGE Program
The IWANGE Program unfolded across multiple stages, each designed to maximize impact and engagement. Here are the key initiatives:
1. Training of Trainers (TOT)
The program began with a three-day intensive training session focusing on mental health, trauma, and counseling. HWCD’s team and local leaders gained essential skills to effectively reach diverse communities and address mental health challenges. This foundational step ensured the program’s sustainability and long-term impact.
2. Rural Community Outreach
HWCD conducted targeted outreach activities across various communities, fostering unity and addressing pressing issues:
- Day 1: Gitesi Sector Community Work (Umuganda): Partnering with local leaders, we engaged 200 participants to address social challenges and promote cohesion.
- Day 2: Kigarama Village: A heartfelt session with 70 marginalized parents of children with special needs fostered understanding and support.
- Day 3: Addressing Trauma: Discussions with 55 participants on traumatic experiences facilitated referrals to mental health professionals.
- Day 4: Trauma Awareness: Signs of trauma and coping strategies were shared with 57 attendees, empowering them to seek help and support others.
3. School Campaign: Ecole Secondaire Gasenyi
Engaging the next generation is vital for sustained change. At Ecole Secondaire Gasenyi, HWCD reached 450 students with impactful lessons on mental health awareness. To ensure the conversation continues, the Heal the World Club was established, inspiring students to become champions of mental well-being in their school and beyond.
4. Market Awareness Campaign: Gasenyi Market
The program’s finale took place in the bustling Gasenyi Market, drawing 700 attendees for a powerful awareness event. Local leaders joined HWCD in delivering messages on mental well-being. Additionally, 200 individuals received free health screenings for non-communicable diseases, underscoring the link between physical and mental health.
5. Supporting Vulnerable Families
As a final act of solidarity, HWCD extended support to 30 vulnerable individuals by providing them with health insurance. This initiative ensured access to essential healthcare services, reinforcing the program’s holistic approach to well-being.
Our Impact in Numbers
The IWANGE Program’s achievements reflect the collective effort of HWCD, its partners, and the communities we serve:
- Communities Engaged: 6
- People Reached: 1,732
- Health Screenings Conducted: 200
- Health Insurance Beneficiaries: 30
These numbers tell a story of transformation, unity, and hope.
Looking Ahead
While the IWANGE Program 2024 has concluded, its legacy lives on. HWCD remains committed to addressing mental health challenges and fostering resilient communities. Building on this success, we are designing future initiatives that will expand the reach and impact of our work.
We invite you to join us in this mission. Whether as a donor, partner, or advocate, your support makes a difference. Together, we can ensure that mental health awareness becomes a cornerstone of community development in Rwanda.
Thank You for Your Support
The IWANGE Program was made possible through the unwavering support of our donors, volunteers, and partners. To everyone who contributed, attended, or shared our vision—thank you. Your belief in the power of compassion and collective action inspires us to keep pushing boundaries.
Stay connected with HWCD for updates on our upcoming programs. Together, let’s continue to heal, empower, and transform.