Authorities from the Ministry of Infrastructure and local leaders in Eastern Province launched the Youth Training Centre in Fumbwe Sector of Rwamagana District yesterday.

The centre for comprehensive entrepreneurship, business planning and cooperative management trainings was built by the government with support from Rwanda Local Development Support Funds (RLDSF).

James Sano, an official from the Ministry of Infrastructure, said the centre was an important for the development of the youth, adding that Rwamagana had been presented with an opportunity to create employment.

Sano said he was happy that such centres were increasing in the country, adding they help create jobs for the youth.

He noted that the ultimate goal was to enable youth form and run viable, competitive and sustainable projects.

"Such facilities promote skills development among the youth which in turn improves their livelihoods,” he said.

"We are happy that such a centre is coming up and we will support it. That is why Rwf 98 million was committed to the cause. Rwandan youths should be particularly excited about the infrastructure,” he added.

Nehemie Uwimana, the district mayor said the centre will provide vocational skills training in building and low cost alternative construction technologies to the youth.

Uwimana emphasised that the beneficiaries will undergo certification and apprenticeships in their respective skills.

He said the programme was an attempt to confront youth unemployment and underemployment in the communities.

"Over the past years the unemployment rates among young people has continued to rise. With this centre however, we expect to check the problem. We want to provide them with adequate trainings, skills and opportunities that will make them employable,” he said.