After leaving street vending, these women formed three cooperative groupsâ€"Inkingi Rugando, Tugane Heza, and Terimbere Mutegarugoriâ€"to improve their livelihoods.
Together, they saved money to build a small market in Rugando.
On Wednesday, October 9, 2024, Rotary Club Kigali Seniors handed over the Frw2.8 million donation to support the women's development efforts.
Aimable Rumongi, the president of the Rotary Club Kigali Seniors, shared that they were inspired by the women's initiative and decided to offer financial support to help them expand their businesses.
'We decided to support these women after learning about their determination to leave street vending behind. Initially, we thought of covering their community-based health insurance, but later decided it would be better to support their business ideas, allowing them to become self-reliant and pay for their own health insurance,' said Rumongi.
He added, 'These women currently sell fruits, vegetables, and charcoal, and they even have ambitions of importing goods from Dubai. Beyond this donation, we will continue offering guidance to ensure they manage their businesses effectively.'
Ayinkamiye Judithe, who leads two of the women's groups, expressed gratitude for the donation, noting that it will significantly increase their capital.
'This support will make a real difference. Previously, members received small amounts of money from our savings due to limited funds. Now, with this contribution, each member will receive more substantial amounts to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods,' she said.
The women, who invested Frw7 million to build their market in Rugando, faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, which severely impacted their operations. The Rotary Club's support is expected to play a crucial role in reviving their businesses.
Bernard Bayasese, Executive Administrator of Gasabo District, praised the Rotary Club's generosity, emphasizing the importance of community support in fostering development.
'I appreciate Rotary for helping these mothers. Progress comes from lifting one another up and aligns with the government's policy of finding homegrown solutions,' he said. He also encouraged the women to continue working in groups, as it increases their chances of receiving assistance.
Rotary Rwanda consists of 12 clubs, including Rotary Club Kigali Seniors and others such as Rotary Club Kigali, Rotary Club Butare, and Rotary Club Kigali Mont Jali.
Rotary International is a non-profit organization engaged in charitable work globally, focusing on supporting vulnerable communities, providing access to clean water, fighting epidemic diseases, and contributing to social welfare initiatives.
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