At least 43 vulnerable women in Ndera Sector, Gasabo District have successfully completed a nine month training course in tailoring and basket weaving.
The course was sponsored by a local NGO, Volunteers Initiative for Sustainable Development and Anti-Poverty Campaign (VISDAPOC).
"My husband has been the sole brad winner in the family even with the cheapest needs in a home. But since I have received a sewing machine on top of the skills, I am sure I will work to also contribute to the development of our family," commented Josephine Umutoni, one of the beneficiaries.
The 40 year old pointed out that this would be her first time to engage in an economic activity.
"The beginning is always hard but I believe this step will open up a new chapter in my life as it gives me a chance to meet and interact with many people unlike before."
VISDAPOC's Project Coordinator, Antoine Niyitegeka, said the Rwf 5.8 million project has benefited 100 women since 2010.
"We are planning to extend this project to other sectors so as to economically promote a big number of vulnerable women but also come up with a follow-up exercise to check on the effectiveness of the project to the beneficiaries."
He pointed out that another batch of 48 women would soon graduate with the same skills.
The district Vice Mayor in charge of social affairs, Marie Louse Uwimana, urged the women to join cooperatives.
"As a district, it is easy to support you (women) through cooperatives and this will also give you a strong voice and capacity to work and heavily benefit from your activities," she said.
