In July 2022, a cohort of young girls and women residing in Kicukiro district, Gahanga sector, embarked on a 12-month transformative socio-economic program delivered by Women for Women Rwanda (WfW-Rwanda). Their remarkable journey culminated in a graduation ceremony on 8th June 2023; in which all the 69 who successfully completed the program were awarded a certificate of achievement.
The primary goal of WfW-Rwanda program is to help vulnerable girls and women to become financially autonomous as well as develop healthier lifestyles; hence positively impacting families and communities; and contributing to the development of the country. In Gahanga, specifically, the trained girls and women acquired skills in tailoring and leather-product making.
The graduates expressed their determination to apply what they have learned and make every effort to contribute to their own development. Jacqueline Nyiramahirwe, one of the graduates, shared that her life used to be miserable before joining the program. She considers the training to be a life-changing experience, saying, "I used to live a life filled with doubt about tomorrow, struggling to provide for my family. However, with the skills I have gained, I am determined to work hard, generate income, improve my family's life, and contribute to the country's development."
Sakurai Djamila also acknowledged the impact of the Women for Women's program, mentioning that they used to lead lonely and sad lives. Now, they are ready to play a significant role in the development of their community. Sakurai said, "They taught us various subjects, including health and well-being, as well as business skills. Additionally, we received vocational training in tailoring and leather making. We can't wait to see our community develop, and we are planning to form a certified cooperative."
The graduates have requested the authorities to provide them with further training and study tours to enhance the knowledge they have acquired. They aim to produce high-quality standards that will not only be recognized within Rwanda but also in the international market, thus contributing to the sector of "Made in Rwanda" products.
Mukamaseri Mboneza Evelyne, in charge of social affairs at the Gahanga sector, commended the graduates and credited the program's success to the good governance and support provided by the country. She expressed, "Many people have had the opportunity to learn new skills that could change their lives, but they failed to even start. Fortunately, this program has taught you self-confidence, health and well-being, and business skills. We thank Women for Women Rwanda for taking you to this level and encourage you to be productive."
She urged the women to make the most of this opportunity by utilizing their skills to create an enabling environment that will not only change their lives but also positively impact their community.
The local authority promised to support the 69 graduates in the process of registering their cooperative, facilitating the start-up of their business activities.