A community-centered public health organization
IMIZI Health Initiative is a community-centered public health organization working to improve health and well-being among vulnerable populations in Rwanda.
Founder's Note
ISHIMWE Felicien founded IMIZI Health Initiative on a vision of public health that grows from within the communities it serves. That same vision now guides the organization forward, shaping partnerships and programs that turn evidence into lasting impact for the families and communities IMIZI serves.
ISHIMWE Felicien
Founder and Executive Director of IMIZI Health Initiative
felicien.i@imizihealth.orgOur story
Health that begins at home
A community-centered public health organization advancing health, empowering communities, and addressing critical social challenges to build healthier and more resilient communities in Rwanda.
Imizi means homes — and that is where health begins. We work with families, community health workers, local leaders and health facilities to make sure prevention, care and support reach the households that are hardest to reach. Our programs span community health promotion, family strengthening and mental well-being, youth empowerment and climate resilience, and the research and advocacy that turn what we learn into lasting policy change.
Mission & Vision
Rooted in community, guided by evidence — everything we do follows from a clear mission and a bold vision for Rwanda's families.
Mission
To improve the health and well-being of vulnerable families in Rwanda through community-based health promotion, family strengthening, youth empowerment, and evidence-driven advocacy — working side by side with the communities we serve.
Vision
A Rwanda where every family has the health, support, and opportunity to thrive — and where communities are resilient enough to carry that thriving into the next generation.
Our values
Five commitments that shape every program
They decide where we work, how we work, and who we answer to.
- 01
Equity
Everyone deserves a fair chance at good health, and we direct our work to where the gaps are widest.
- 02
Community Participation
Communities are partners, not beneficiaries. We plan, deliver and evaluate side by side with them.
- 03
Innovation
We look for better ways to reach families, and we are willing to test, learn and adapt.
- 04
Excellence
We hold our programs to high standards of quality, rigour and professional integrity.
- 05
Stewardship
We use every resource entrusted to us carefully, transparently and for lasting impact.
Support our work
Your gift reaches the next family
Every contribution funds preventive care, family support and youth programs in the communities that need them most — and keeps our teams working side by side with them.