Inspire. Believe. Achieve.
Empowering children and adults with disabilities to reach their full potential in rural Rwanda.
In Nyaruguru District one of Rwanda's most remote areas ASFA Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre is transforming lives. Through specialist physiotherapy and occupational therapy, we help people with disabilities unlock independence, dignity, and real opportunity.
Founded by the Rwandan NGO Sœurs Pénitantes de Saint François d'Assise and UK registered charity MAD4Africa, we've partnered since 2014 to bring specialist rehabilitation to rural communities.
*ASFA is a French acronym for 'Amis de Saint François d’Assise' (Friends of St Francis of Assisi).
GBPÂŁ120 / USD$150 / Rwf 220,000 supports a child for one month of life-changing treatment and care.
NCPD Recognised
December 2024 · Rwanda
Empowering Lives
Since 2014 · Rwanda
Keza* was admitted to ASFA Physiotherapy in January 2025 with quadriplegic spastic cerebral palsy - she was unable to walk, stand, feed herself, or perform basic self-care activities.
Keza Kellia
ASFA Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre
A Centre of Excellence for people with disabilities in rural Rwanda
In Nyaruguru District one of Rwanda's most remote areas ASFA Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre is transforming lives. Through specialist physiotherapy and occupational therapy, we help people with disabilities unlock independence, dignity, and real opportunity
Founded by the Rwandan NGO Sœurs Pénitantes de Saint François d'Assise in partnership with UK registered charity MAD4Africa, the centre was created to address the urgent lack of rehabilitation services in rural communities.
The earlier a child receives rehabilitation, the greater the chance to transform their life.
Specialist Rehabilitation That Changes Lives
The earlier a child receives rehabilitation, the greater the chance to transform their life.
ASFA Physio's Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) programme has supported over 350 children and adults since May 2025, with disabilities such as cerebral palsy, developmental delay, down syndrome, autism, neurological disorders and musculoskeletal disorders.
CBR Therapy sessions take place every week in four sectors in Nyaruguru District - Muganza, Busanze, Ruheru, and Nyabimata. Families are empowered with practical home programmes, positioning techniques, and knowledge to prevent complications.
This programme is generously supported by Missionszentrale Der Franziskaner (MZF) with sincere gratitude and thanks.
Child-centred play-therapy to stimulate brain development, encourage movement and improve long-term outcomes.
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 sessions
Strong safeguarding and child protection practices
Our approach ensures every patient is treated with dignity, care and clinical excellence.
Specialist Equipment to Deliver Exceptional Outcomes
Transforming Lives Every Day
December 2024
Thousands of patients supported since 2014
10+ Years of Service
18 Dedicated Staff Members
4 Sectors Reached Through CBR
Behind every number is a person gaining independence, confidence and hope.
Expert, Compassionate Professionals
Leading our centre with expertise and vision
Guiding our mission and community partnerships
Our multidisciplinary team includes physiotherapists, occupational therapists, accountant, therapy assistants and support staff — all working together to provide exceptional wholistic treatment and care.
18
Staff
3
Departments
2014
Since
1000+
Children Treated
300+
Families Trained
A First Step Forward
Many children arrive at ASFA unable to sit, stand, or walk independently. Through intensive, play-based therapy, they build strength, movement, and confidence. Families learn to continue this care at home. For parents, it's often the first glimpse of what their child can truly achieve—and the moment hope can take hold.
Charles*, a three-year-old boy with Down's syndrome, joined the Community Based Rehabilitation programme in Nyabimata Sector. When we met Charles, he could sit but was unable to crawl or walk. He had very limited communication and relied entirely on his caregiver for daily activities.
1 / 5
Rwf 220K
per month funds one child's full care
ÂŁ120
GBP equivalent per month
$150
USD equivalent per month
Together, we can ensure every child can reach their full potential.
If you think you're too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito!
”Best for international/UK donors.
UK donors can claim Gift Aid via online giving.
Make a secure donation through our partner MAD4Africa's fundraising page.
Donate OnlineBanks
Best for Rwanda-based donors and organisations.
Bank of Kigali (BK)
1001 8765 7948
Banque Populaire du Rwanda (BPR)
501 404 741 610 187
Mobile Money
Best for Rwanda-based supporters.
MomoPay
*182*8*1*762010*[Amount]Frw#
We warmly welcome partnerships with organisations, foundations and donors who share our vision. Please get in touch!
Get in Touch
Many supporters organise fundraising activities to support our work using MAD4Africa's ASFA Physiotherapy Centre donation page.
Via MAD4AfricaThank You to Our Partners and Supporters
MAD4Africa, a UK registered charity, has been our founding partner since 2014. Together, we're strengthening rural communities by creating meaningful employment at international standards and delivering lasting change for people with disabilities and their families.
www.mad4africa.com
Words from Those We Serve
FamilyEloudie* came to ASFA Centre when she was just three months old. Her legs were crossed, and her feet were turned upward. As a mother, I feared she would never be able to walk. Through ASFA’s support, she was referred to Rilima for surgery, and the centre facilitated the entire p…
— Father
FamilyClement's Mother said,
Before coming to ASFA Centre, my son Clement could not sit, walk, or speak, and was completely dependent. It was a painful and uncertain time for our family. Today, I am very happy because, through the care and professional support at ASFA, Clement can now walk, talk, play with o…
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