Rwandan families that were evicted from Tanzania in 2013 and resettled in Bweranvura, Gasabo District will soon have a place to call home. 

Hima Cement Rwanda on Tuesday donated 750 bags of cement, worth Rwf7.5m, to help complete construction of homes in the next two months.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Hima Cement Rwanda country manager, Jimmy Mugabo said the donation is part of the company’s commitment to improving lives as part of their corporate social responsibility.

"As a company, settlement and shelter for all is one of our key focus areas. We have committed to continuously identify the needs of our community, especially shelter, because we believe that settlement is a prerequisite in developing a community. We have extended support towards the completion of the construction of new homes for the families and we will continue to support the communities in various aspects of life,” said Mugabo.

Hima Cement Rwanda has spearheaded social and environmental rehabilitation programmes within communities around the country.

The company’s contribution through these projects has enhanced the living conditions of vulnerable people.

Speaking to The New Times, the Mayor of Gasabo District, Stephen Rwamurangwa, assured that all the families will have to relocate to their new homes by the end of June.

Edisa Mukankusi, 60, said she was very grateful for the support because it gives them hope.

The 158 evictees living in Bweramvura village, Jabana sector occupy facilities of a former technical school. They are among the about 14,533 persons evicted from Tanzania in 2013.

The Jabana group needed about 48 housing units.

"The living conditions were very poor, having over seven families in one room. Now that we have got this support, we believe that very soon we shall not be regarded homeless people,” Mukankusi said happily.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw