In a remarkable display of community spirit and initiative, the youth of Bugesera district in Rwanda have embarked on a project to build homes for vulnerable families. The program, dubbed "Urubyiruko turashima" or "Youth we are grateful," was launched in 2023 with the aim of expressing gratitude to the government for providing opportunities for young people to participate in leadership and access various jobs. According to Mbonimpaye Pascal, coordinator of the National Youth Council in Bugesera, the initiative seeks to appreciate the government's efforts in providing a conducive environment for youth to thrive.
The "Urubyiruko turashima" program has made significant progress since its inception, with eight families having been provided with fully furnished homes in the past three years. The homes, built using local materials and expertise, are valued at over RWF 200 million (approximately USD 200,000). In addition to the homes, the families have also received livestock, including cows, to help them improve their livelihoods. Mbonimpaye Pascal emphasized that the program is not just about providing physical shelter but also about empowering families to become self-sufficient.
The beneficiaries of the program have expressed their gratitude for the support. Mukamana Jeannette, a genocide survivor who received a home and a cow, said she was overwhelmed with joy and relief. "I was living in a difficult situation, but now I have a decent home and a means to improve my livelihood," she said. Wihogora Christine, another beneficiary, echoed similar sentiments, saying that the support had come as a blessing and would help her to provide for her four children.
The Bugesera district authorities have welcomed the initiative, saying it complements government efforts to improve the lives of citizens. Mutabazi Richard, the district mayor, praised the youth for their ingenuity and commitment to community development. He encouraged the beneficiaries to take good care of the homes and livestock, saying that they would serve as a catalyst for further development in the area.
The "Urubyiruko turashima" program is seen as a shining example of youth-led community development initiatives in Rwanda. By taking charge of their own development, the youth of Bugesera are demonstrating their potential to drive positive change in their communities. The program has also highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, civil society, and the private sector in addressing social and economic challenges.
According to Mbonimpaye Pascal, the program is set to expand to other areas, with more families expected to benefit from the initiative. The youth are also exploring other projects, including education and skills training programs, to support community development. With the support of government and other stakeholders, the "Urubyiruko turashima" program is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of thousands of people in Bugesera and beyond.
As Rwanda continues to make strides in socio-economic development, initiatives like "Urubyiruko turashima" demonstrate the power of community-led development and the potential for youth to drive positive change. The program serves as a testament to the country's commitment to empowering its citizens, particularly the youth, to take charge of their own development and build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
Key points
- The "Urubyiruko turashima" program has built eight homes for vulnerable families in Bugesera district, Rwanda, and provided them with livestock to improve their livelihoods.
- The initiative, launched in 2023, aims to express gratitude to the government for providing opportunities for young people to participate in leadership and access various jobs.
- The program is set to expand to other areas, with more families expected to benefit from the initiative.
