Community Philanthropy: Home-Grown Solutions As An Approach For Nation Building And Resilience In Rwanda

This research article seeks to map community giving in its many dimensions, including community foundations in urban and rural contexts. Within the Rwandan Community setting, the government focused intensely on rehabilitating and developing crucial areas of nation-building, particularly socio-economic, sociopolitical, and security aspects post 1994 genocide. To confront these challenges, Rwandans sought practical, indigenous solutions. These “home-grown solutions” (HGS) are culturally grounded strategies designed for sustainable development, rooted in national heritage and historical awareness. Emphasizing self-reliance and drawing on positive past experiences, HGS reflect Rwandans’ resolve to shape policies that align with their cultural values and minimize reliance on external aid, guided by concerns about aid effectiveness and long-term sustainability.