Over 148 residents in Gisagara District have completed a community-oriented programme that aims at promoting self-reliance through proper financial management.

The group is the first to graduate from the programme which started mid-last year and is funded by Global Communities/Usaid Ejo Heza in partnership with Peace Corps Rwanda.

Dubbed the Community Finance Initiative (CFI), the project is based on a four-phase curriculum. In the first phase, participants underwent weekly trainings on saving, budgeting, debt management and bank services.

In the second phase, the trainees will be encouraged to save and make monthly budgets for their families.

The third phase will involve lessons on management, basic entrepreneurship and skills on elaborating a business plan while the last will focus on implementing income generating activities.

The programme is being piloted in 11 districts across the country.

Through the project, more Rwandans in rural areas are increasing their assets through savings and have access to credit to build businesses that will increase wealth and stimulate more economic growth in their communities, officials said during the handing over of certificates to the first group of participants on Wednesday.

John Ames, the Chief of Party for Global Communities/Usaid EJoHeza project, said the programme seeks to support government’s efforts toward promoting a savings culture among residents.

"It is supporting efforts toward sustainable growth by investing in the development of families,” Ames said.

Esron Hategekimana, Gisagara District vice-mayor for economic affairs, said the programme will "stimulate proper management of family funds, spur growth and help improve the lives of local residents.”

Beneficiaries noted improvement in management of family finances thanks to the programme.

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