The support was unveiled on Saturday, January 24, 2026, during a ceremony at which beneficiaries, who had completed training in tailoring and technology, received tools and equipment to help them start income-generating activities.
The group of beneficiaries includes eight teen mothers and youth from vulnerable households in Musha Sector. They completed a year-long vocational training programme implemented through a partnership between the Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan, REAP, and Rwamagana District.
One of the beneficiaries, Jacques Sibomana, who trained in machine tailoring for a year, said his family had been living in poverty, but the support he received has given him renewed hope.
'I will work hard so that I can help my family get out of poverty,' he said. 'I started by sewing skirts, but now I can sew trousers. I can earn about Frw 15,000 per week, save part of it through a savings group, and use the rest to improve my life and support my family.'
Rachel Uwimpuhwe, 22, said the skills she acquired during the training will enable her to become independent and contribute to her household's wellbeing.
'Tailoring will help me improve my life and meet my needs without depending on my parents,' she said. 'What I appreciate most is that we were trained to use different types of machines, which means I can find work anywhere or even start my own business. My goal is to earn income and support my family.'
Suman Allan, the President of Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan, said the support was delivered through the REAP project, which focuses on equipping youth from vulnerable families and teen mothers with practical skills.
'We provided them with training and the necessary equipment,' he said. 'We encourage them to use these tools responsibly, maintain discipline, and apply their skills effectively so they can transform their lives and help their families rise out of poverty.'
The Executive Secretary of Musha Sector, Jean Claude Rwagasana, assured beneficiaries that local authorities will continue to support them even after the training period.
'You are not alone,' he said. 'Teen mothers will continue to receive legal aid, and youth from vulnerable families will also receive follow-up until they achieve sustainable progress. Use the tools you have been given productively so that you and your families can move forward.'
The Rotary Club of Kigali Cosmopolitan, which has been operating for two years, focuses on empowering young people from vulnerable backgrounds by helping them acquire vocational skills. Beyond training, the club also facilitates job placements for some beneficiaries in garment factories across the country.
IGIHE
