Why We Exist
Born from the ashes of tragedy, driven by hope for transformation
Our Origin Story
ADTS was created in 1998 in response to the profound needs that emerged after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. Our founders recognized that rebuilding Rwanda required more than physical reconstruction—it demanded a fundamental transformation of hearts, minds, and social structures.
In the aftermath of unimaginable tragedy, communities were fractured, trust was shattered, and the social fabric that held society together had been torn apart. Domestic violence, poverty, gender inequality, and trauma were widespread. Traditional approaches to development were insufficient to address these deep-rooted challenges.
The Critical Needs We Address
Social Cohesion & Unity
Rebuilding trust, fostering reconciliation, and creating cohesive communities where all members can live together in peace and mutual respect.
Mindset & Behavior Change
Transforming harmful attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that perpetuate violence, inequality, and poverty through critical consciousness and education.
Gender Equality & Women's Rights
Addressing the root causes of gender-based violence and empowering women to claim their rights, dignity, and economic independence.
Economic Empowerment
Breaking the cycle of poverty through savings groups, cooperatives, entrepreneurship training, and income-generating activities.
Civic Participation & Governance
Strengthening democracy, human rights, leadership, and active citizenship so communities can hold institutions accountable and shape their own futures.
Family Transformation
Preventing domestic violence, promoting peaceful families, and ensuring children grow up in safe, nurturing environments.
Our Fundamental Purpose
We exist because we believe that every person—regardless of their past, their gender, their economic status—has inherent dignity and the capacity to transform their own life and community.
We exist because top-down development doesn't work. Sustainable change must come from within communities, driven by their own critical consciousness, collective action, and self-reliance.
We exist to facilitate that transformation—not to impose solutions, but to walk alongside communities as they discover their own power, wisdom, and agency to create a just and prosperous world.
Join Us in This Mission
For over 23 years, we've been transforming lives and empowering communities. But there is still much work to be done. Together, we can create a Rwanda where every person thrives.