In an effort to support Rwandans who were expelled from Tanzania last year, Airtel Rwanda staff over the weekend participated in a housing project in Karangazi sector in Nyagatare District, where they made bricks and constructed homes for the evictees currently residing in the sector.

Thousands of peopel were expelled from Tanzania in 2013 and have since been resettled in different areas in the district.

According to the Mayor of Nyagatare District, Fred Sabiti, over 300 families consisting of more than 1,000 evictees are currently living in the district and plans are in place to build over 60 houses for those who have not yet settled in.

"I thank Airtel for this gesture as it shows that we can find solutions to challenges and problems we face in life as a country. I call on Rwandans and friends of Rwanda to emulate this life changing activity,” Sabiti said after Umuganda community work on Saturday.

Airtel Rwanda managing director, Teddy Bhullar said the Airtel family was more than happy to lend a helping hand in building homes for the evictees.

"We always believe that it is our duty to support the communities in which we live. Our contribution is small, but we hope it will go a long way in helping and changing the lives of the evictees as they rebuild their homes and settle comfortably in this community. We are also glad to be a part of this national development programme,” Bhullar said.

Airtel also donated Rwf3 million and assorted construction tools, including brick-making equipment that will aid in the construction of housing units for the evictees.