In Rwanda, COVID-19 resulted in lockdowns, social distancing, and curfews. To stop the spread of the virus, many businesses and activities shut down, including Kigali Reading Center. Thanks to a strong vaccine campaign and the Kigali residents’ willingness to get the jab, KRC came roaring back to action, with reading activities and other center business operating close to capacity. With masks and increased hand washing, we’ve safely resumed our reading activities, playing games, practicing English dictation, listening to music, and, of course, dancing!

The children voted Smiley Shark as the one book they would read to others over the holiday season. The story portrays a friendly shark who wanted to play with all the other fish in the ocean, but they were too afraid to play with him. He ends up saving all the fish from a fisherman’s trap. We were proud the children chose a story with themes of leadership and acceptance of others.

The KRC has been privileged to receive numerous guests from both the USA and Rwanda, all of whom were so excited to meet the kids for the first time. Our guests read to the kids, and the kids read to our guests in turn. We love to receive visitors, and the children always ask when our next guests will arrive. Those of us at KRC are thankful for Rwanda’s slow return to normal and for the opportunity to share the joy of reading with the children of Nyamirambo.