SCAW BLOG: RWANDA, 2026: September 4
Today we had an early start. The alarm was set for 0515 hrs in order to breakfast at 0600 hrs. This allowed us to get on the road by 0700 hrs. We headed out to an industrial economic zone in the city of Kigali where we visited a major factory that employs 180 persons in the manufacture of mattresses. We were given a tour by the Chief Operating Officer of the company. This factory is the manufacturer of the mattresses that are being given out during this bedkit distribution.
The process was explained and we were able to follow the entire production line. The process is highly automated but there is still a significant role played by skilled workers to complete the mattresses.
The foam interiors are produced by the mixing of various components that are sourced from China and South Korea.
The colourful fabrics that cover the mattresses are also sourced from China.
The company has operations in three countries in Africa and has a wide range of products.
While we were at the factory we witnessed the mattresses destined for distribution today being loaded onto transport vehicles. These mattresses were delivered just prior to our scheduled start time.
When we arrived at the distribution site, the only entrance to the school complex was blocked by the delivery van!
The factory was a model enterprise and has manufactured mattresses for SCAW distributions for a number of years.
The mattresses are a key element in the bedkit and many children prior to receiving a bedkit sleep on the ground or on the floor. This mattress with the mosquito net which is also a key component of the bedkit are instrumental in helping children achieve a good night’s sleep.
Once the distribution got underway there were almost five hundred children who received a bedkit thanks to the generosity of the donors.
To end the day, we visited another manufacturing business. This time it was a much smaller operation that featured skilled workers who sewed together the back packs that form part of the bedkit.
A donation made to SCAW, goes 100 % to paying for bedkits for the children but also provides employment for local individuals in the country of distribution. The gift of the donation of a bedkit has a ripple effect within the community. Every donation makes a difference and a significant contribution to the well-being of the children of Rwanda.
Thank you for your compassion and generosity.
Team Rwanda, 2026
Rotary Club of Kigali Virunga 🇷🇼 + SCAW 🇨🇦
