Think About Education in RWANDA is an NPO that supports children in Rwanda who have difficulty attending school, guided by the principle that "education is the key to peace and development." Learning from the country's history of civil war, it aims to give children who want to learn an opportunity for education, regardless of ethnicity, religion or political views.
Its work has four parts. Under its education support program, it built the Umuchomiiza school (kindergarten and primary school) in the capital Kigali, from which about 300 students had graduated by 2020, and it is now planning a technical training school to help young people living on the streets become independent. It also gives lectures across Japan, sells specialty coffee to support small-scale Rwandan farmers and the school, and holds events where people can experience African culture, such as Rwandaful Summer.
The group was founded in 1999, resumed activities in earnest as an NPO in 2001, established the school in 2002 and opened a local office in 2005. It currently has 230 members. Ways to take part from Japan include buying coffee and making donations from 500 yen a month.
Key points
- About 300 children had graduated from the Umuchomiiza school in Kigali by 2020
- Four activities, including lectures, coffee sales and events, that people in Japan can join
- Based in Fukushima, it also works to promote mutual understanding between Japan and Rwanda
Why this organization's work stands out
Beyond building and running a school, it offers several easy entry points for people in Japan through lectures, coffee sales and cultural events. The simplicity of supporting children just by having a cup of coffee is appealing.
Its blog continues to report on activities in Japan and Rwanda, with a new post as recent as October 2026.
Editor's comment
The words "education is the key to peace and development" carry the weight of the group's long journey. It is lovely that a simple cup of coffee can support the learning of children in Rwanda.
Details on the activities, coffee purchases and how to join are on the official website. Please take a look.