Campaign by Story
A Centre of Excellence in Rural Rwanda
Established in 2014 by the Muganza Community of the Sœurs Pénitantes de Saint François d’Assise, Rwanda in partnership with UK registered charity MAD4Africa, ASFA Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre was created to address the urgent lack of rehabilitation services in Nyaruguru District Southern Province, Rwanda for children with disabilities.
The centre delivers sustainable, high-quality physiotherapy and rehabilitation services, with a focus on treating vulnerable children who would otherwise go without care. The centre is also developing adult/child outpatients services to help best serve the needs of the community.
Specialist Rehabilitation That Changes Lives
* Inpatient Paediatric Care
Residential physiotherapy and occupational therapy for children with complex needs, delivered in three-month rotational programmes that support both children and their families.
* Outpatient Services
Physiotherapy and rehabilitation for children and adults, including neurological, orthopaedic and post-surgical care.
* Play-Therapy Approach
We use engaging, child-centred play-therapy to stimulate brain development, encourage movement and improve long-term outcomes.
How We Deliver Impact
• Evidence-based physiotherapy and occupational therapy
• Play-therapy philosophy
• High staff-to-patient ratios for personalised care
• Internationally recognised outcome monitoring systems
• Individual and group therapy including sensory, seating, standing and music therapy
• Strong safeguarding and child protection practices
Our approach ensures every patient is treated with dignity, care and clinical excellence.
Who We Support
* Children (Inpatients & Outpatients):
Cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, developmental delay, congenital conditions, club foot, spinal and brain injuries, genu valgum amongst other conditions.
* Adults (Outpatients):
Stroke and neuro-rehabilitation, orthopaedic and post-surgical rehabilitation, gait and balance training, ADL's (Activities of daily living) training, pain management and daily living skills.
A Safe, Therapeutic Environment
Located in a therapeutic and peaceful rural setting, ASFA Physiotherapy offers a calm and supportive environment that promotes healing and wellbeing. The centre is fully equipped with specialist physiotherapy and occupational therapy equipment, including gait training systems, standing frames, wheelchairs, seating and mobility aids.
Residential care also provides vital respite for families and carers.
Recognised for Excellence
In December 2024, ASFA Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre was proud to have been recognised by Rwanda’s National Council for Persons with Disabilities
for exceptional commitment to inclusion, accessibility and empowerment
Behind every achievement is a child taking their first steps, sitting independently, or gaining confidence to participate in everyday life.
Our Team
Managing Director, MURWANASHYAKA Diogene, with the support from Project Partner and Congregation Representative, Sr Vivine NYIRARUKUNDO, leads a multidisciplinary team of 18 dedicated staff including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, therapy assistants and non-clinical support staff, all committed to delivering compassionate, professional care. Continuous training and international CPD ensure the highest clinical standards.
Why Your Support Matters
Demand for our services continues to grow. Currently, only a small percentage of families can afford the full cost of treatment, while many contribute what they can or receive care pro-bono.
Our priorities for 2026 and beyond include:
• Expanding inpatient care to full capacity (32 children)
• Developing Outpatients, specialist outpatient clinics and expand community-based rehabilitation.
• Strengthening partnerships with local organisations such as the Ministry of Health to protect the long term legacy of the centre and ensure no child is left behind.
Please join us to deliver our mission:
To deliver exceptional, personalised treatment and care that empowers people with disabilities to overcome physical challenges, thrive and feel valued members of their community”
Thank you for your support!
MURWANASHYAKA Diogene, Sr Vivine NYIRARUKUNDO and
Team ASFA Physio
Proudly supported by Project Partners MAD4Africa & Sœurs Pénitantes de Saint François d’Assise, Rwanda
