blog post

Reuniting Hearts


Written By Life Link

On June 6th, 2025 African International Children’s Day, ICPO (Integration of Children Post-Prison Organization) marked the occasion not with speeches or ceremonies, but with something far more powerful: connection.


We facilitated a deeply emotional and healing visit for 16 children, including a pair of twins, to reunite with their mothers in Musanze Prison. For many of these children, this was more than just a visit, it was a lifeline. Two of them had just lost their father 2 days earlier. In the face of grief, being able to embrace their mother brought strength, comfort, and a sense of belonging that no words could replace.


Why This Matters

At ICPO, we believe that no child should be forgotten especially those born into the shadows of prison life. Our mission is rooted in compassion, dignity, and the unwavering belief that every child deserves love, education, and a future.


Many of the women in prison are there due to illegal activities, including drug-related issues and other crimes not permitted within Rubavu borders and across Rwanda. When a mother is sentenced and has a young child, we step in immediately to ensure that child is not left behind. We reach out to relatives or trusted families who can accommodate the child, and we provide support with schooling, hygiene items, food and emotional care.


These children face unique emotional and developmental challenges. We identify these children across women’s prisons in Rwanda and provide tailored support both inside and outside prison walls. From health insurance and inclusive education to reintegration programs and sanitation support, we walk with them every step of the way. And perhaps most importantly, we work to maintain and strengthen the bond between mother and child because healing begins with connection.


Beyond the Bars: Building Peace and Reintegration


Our work doesn’t stop at the prison gates. We also bring families together through reconciliation dialogues and peacebuilding activities because healing fractured relationships is essential for lasting change.


Join Us in This Mission

This recent visit to Musanze Prison was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we come together with empathy and purpose. But there are many more children we haven’t reached yet children who need safety, care, and a chance to thrive. As more support becomes available, we are committed to reaching them too.


Whether you’re an individual, an organization, or a policymaker, you can make a difference:

    - Sponsor a child’s education or health insurance

    • - Support our prison visitation programs

    • - Partner with us on reintegration and peacebuilding initiatives

    • - Volunteer your time or expertise


    Together, we can rewrite the story for Rwanda’s most vulnerable children, one visit, one smile, one future at a time.


    To learn more or get involved, contact us at +250 788 835 842 or email us at icpmrwanda@yahoo.com