About us

About RWA-NOSW

The Rwanda National Organization of Social Workers (RWA-NOSW) is the professional body representing social workers across Rwanda. Established in 2006, the organization serves as a platform for unifying social work professionals, enhancing their capacities, and advocating for policies that strengthen social work practice and protect vulnerable populations.

RWA-NOSW is legally recognized under Personality N° 631/RGB/NGO/LP/04/2020 (issued 29/05/2020). In 2024, the organization adopted a new constitution to comply with the updated law Nº 058/2024 of 20/06/2024 governing non-governmental organizations, ensuring continued alignment with Rwanda’s legal and social development frameworks.

More about us

What is Social Work?

Social Work is a professional practice and academic discipline dedicated to helping individuals, families, groups, and communities enhance well-being, overcome challenges, and achieve social justice.

Social workers:

Care– support vulnerable people with compassion.
Empower– help individuals and communities build on their strengths.
Advocate– fight for fairness, equality, and social protection policies.

Academic Pathways in Social Work

Bachelor’s degree in social work, entry-level professional practice.
Master of Social Work (MSW / MDS)– advanced knowledge, leadership, and specialization.
PhD in Social Work– research, policy, and academic leadership.

Where Do Social Workers Work?

In Rwanda and worldwide, social workers serve across diverse sectors:

✅ Health & Mental Health – hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers.
✅ Child Protection & Family Welfare – child rights, foster care, GBV prevention.
✅ Education – schools, universities, and student counseling.
✅ Justice & Correction – juvenile rehabilitation, probation, and courts.
✅ Community Development – NGOs, refugee services, and local associations.
✅ Policy & Advocacy – government, research, and UN agencies.

This diversity makes social work a bridge between individuals and society.

Historical Background of Social Work

Global Perspective

-- 19th Century Origins (Europe & USA) oCharity Organization Societies (COS) – focused on individual support. oSettlement House Movement (Jane Addams) – promoted community empowerment & reform.
-- 20th Century – development of professional schools, ethics, and international standards.
-- Today – recognized worldwide by the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW).

In Rwanda

-- Rooted in traditional values of solidarity (Ubumuntu / Ubuntu).
--The 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi revealed the urgent need for professional social work in trauma healing, child protection, reintegration, and resilience building.
-- Today, the Rwanda National Organization of Social Workers (RWA-NOSW) leads efforts to professionalize and regulate social work in the country.

Why Social Work Matters

Strengthens child protection systems.
Supports mental health and psychosocial well-being.
Advocates for vulnerable and marginalized groups.
Contributes to national development and social cohesion.

Mission | Vision | Motto

Mission

To advance the social work profession and uphold social justice, human rights, and inclusive development across Rwanda

Vision

A strong and professional social work sector that contributes to a just, inclusive, and supportive society in Rwanda.

Motto

“Striving for a Better Society for All”

Our Objectives

RWA-NOSW is guided by clear objectives designed to promote the profession and support Rwanda’s social development:

To promote and strengthen the social work profession.
To build the capacities of members through training and professional development.
To advocate for social justice, equity, and human rights.
To stand up for children, families, and vulnerable groups.
To support and promote social welfare and development programs.

To contribute to national social and development policy processes.
To promote partnerships and collaboration with local and international stakeholders.
To enhance psychological support and mental health care.
To address communicable and non-communicable diseases and promote environmental health.
To tackle malnutrition and stunting through Early Childhood Development (ECD) services.

Why RWA-NOSW Matters

Social workers in Rwanda play a crucial role in:

Protecting vulnerable groups such as children, youth, women, and persons with disabilities.
Promoting psychosocial well-being and mental health.
Advocating for stronger social protection systems.
Contributing to Rwanda’s national development through community engagement.

Through RWA-NOSW, social workers have a collective voice to influence policies, strengthen their profession, and make a lasting impact on communities.