Working in Rwanda
General Information
Number of occupational therapists in Rwanda
48
Terminology
In
Rwanda
, the term "occupational therapist" is also referred to as Occupational therapist
Main language(s) spoken in Rwanda
Kinyarwanda, English, French
Other languages commonly spoken in Rwanda
Swahili
Registration
Occupational therapists are required to register with a federal/national organisation to practice
Required
[email protected] or email: [email protected]
Occupational therapists are required to register with a state/regional organisation to practice
Required
Email: [email protected] | [email protected] | [email protected]. This is applicable for the foreigners who should have a work permit.
It is compulsory to join the Rwanda Occupational Therapy Association in order to practice as an occupational therapist
No
Practicing Requirements
Graduation from a WFOT approved programme is required to register to practice
No
It is preferred but not mandatory
Language(s) that are required for occupational therapists to practice
English, Kinyarwanda, French
Kinyarwanda is mostly spoken language by the citizens both clients and Rwandan occupational therapists. English is known by the local Rwandan occupational therapists and is used for some clients who are comfortable with it for communication, while French is used by few clients.
Additional requirements for occupational therapists to practice
There is no additional requirements, just a degree in occupational therapy and license for practice are requirements, plus personal commitment.
Employment Opportunities
Occupational therapy is recognised as a shortage occupation
Yes
Occupational therapists are few in the country, only 48 are expected to serve the people in need of the services. Therefore, there is a need to employ occupational therapists in different practice areas (hospitals, rehabilitation centres, special schools, non governmental organisations, among others).
Sources of information for occupational therapist employment opportunities
In the teaching and referral hospitals, rehabilitation centres, special schools, private clinic sectors, academia, industries, among others.
Immigration
Immigration regulations or visa requirements to practice
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Occupational therapy assistants exist in Rwanda
No
Disclaimer: This information was provided by Rwanda Occupational Therapy Association and was last updated on 14th July 2025. WFOT is not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or changes in the information provided. This information is intended as a guide and should be independently verified before making any decisions.
Definition of Occupational Therapy in Rwanda
Rwanda Occupational Therapy Association's definition of occupational therapy in own language
Occupational Therapy ni umwuga w'ubuvuzi wifashisha ibikorwa hagamijwe guha no kongerera ubushobozi umurwayi cyangwa undi muntu ufite imbogamizi mubuzima bwe bwa buri munsi (Rwanda Occupational Therapy Association, 2024).
Rwanda Occupational Therapy Association's definition of occupational therapy in English
Occupational Therapy is holistic health care profession that uses the purposeful and meaningful activities to habilitate or rehabilitate the persons with limitation in everyday life to achieve optimal functioning independence (Rwanda Occupational Therapy Association, 2024).
Education Programmes
WFOT Approved Programmes in Rwanda
1