Mission Statement – Friends of Ruanda e.V.
Friends of Ruanda e.V. was founded in 2006 as a non-profit organization. Our goal is to work together with Rwandan partner organizations to implement projects that contribute sustainably and long-term to improving living conditions on the ground.
At the heart of our work are partnership-based cooperation, local ownership, and mutual learning – on equal footing.
Our Focus Areas
We are committed to the following fields:
● Vocational Training: We create opportunities for young people through practice-oriented training programs.
● Water Supply and Energy Access: Through resource-efficient solutions, we promote access to clean water and sustainable energy.
● Medical Care: We support projects that improve access to healthcare services.
● Strengthening Local Crafts and Businesses: We promote economic self-reliance by supporting local enterprises.
Our work is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular:
● Quality Education (SDG 4)
● Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3)
● Clean Water and Affordable and Clean Energy (SDGs 6 & 7)
● Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17)
Volunteer Programs North–South & South–North
Since 2008, we have been active as a recognized sending organization within the development volunteer service weltwärts, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
Our volunteer programs enable young adults from Germany to collaborate with our partners in Rwanda over extended periods and gain valuable intercultural experience.
Since 2023, we have also offered a South–North program. Young people from Rwanda are given the opportunity to gain practical experience in Germany, contribute new perspectives, and strengthen their personal and professional development. This program helps to question traditional North–South dynamics, foster mutual learning processes, and make global partnership tangible.
A central objective of our work is also to strengthen our volunteers’ long-term commitment to development cooperation – through educational support, returnee programs, organizational structures within the association, and opportunities for active participation.
Our goal: mutual understanding, global learning, and cooperative development.
Our Values
We stand for respect, diversity, and inclusion.
Regardless of origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, or lifestyle, we respect the dignity of every individual. We see diversity as a strength – and as the foundation for global cooperation on equal terms.
Solidarity, openness, and mutual respect guide our actions – for everyone involved.