The initiative equips community members with skills to work collaboratively, make transparent decisions, and actively participate in development activities.
During a development pathway meeting, residents of a given village identify the challenges they face, select profitable projects, and implement them with support from Spark Microgrants.
The organization provides both financial assistance and guidance, helping residents gain confidence to take part in development initiatives.
Community members say they have gained knowledge in financial management and in designing development-oriented plans.
Clémentine Nyirakamagaza explained that she was among the first to attend Spark Microgrants' training sessions. Today, she leads FCAP activities in her community.
'When FCAP started in our village, some people did not understand it and participation was low. We were trained first, then we went out to sensitize others. Those who accepted joined the groups, and together we started solving problems,' she said.
'The program gave us confidence. I realized that taking care of the household does not only mean providing food, but also paying attention to cleanliness. The training became a starting point for self-development. Today, I have been able to buy two plots of land and renovate my house,' added Nyirakamagaza.
Phineas Rwamanywa, who is differently abled, also testified how the process transformed his life through the training provided by Spark Microgrants.
'Through FCAP and Spark Microgrants' support, our village chose cattle farming. I was lucky to be among those selected to receive a cow. It calved, and the money from the calf, funded other development projects while continuing to rear cattle,' he said.
'As a person with a disability, FCAP did not exclude me. Instead, it showed me that anyone, no matter their condition, can work and achieve the development they aspire to,' added Rwamanywa.
Aime François Niyonsenga, the Deputy Mayor of Gakenke District in charge of Economic Development, confirmed that the project has transformed citizens' attitudes and participation in government programs.
'This project has changed many things, especially the mindset. Citizens now actively take part in government initiatives and community projects. For example, when it comes to subscriptions for community-based health insurance [Mutuelle de Santé], they now achieve 100% coverage,' he noted.
Residents commonly use the grants provided by Spark Microgrants to invest in farming, small businesses, tailoring, and digital services including those offered through platforms such as Irembo, among others.
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