They had for long dreamt of marketing their products on the world arena, but lacked Internet connectivity to exploit the massive online market.

However, this could soon be history after Airtel Rwanda donated a computer and a month’s Internet bundle as well as three weaving machines to Isano Co-operative, group of 12 young entrepreneurs affected by HIV/AIDS based in Niboye sector, Kicukiro District. 

The group, which was started in 2013 by an enterprising youth, Celine Mudahakana, aims at creating a sustainable source of income for young people affected by HIV/AIDS. It is mainly comprised of young mothers.

Some of the group’s products include scarves, bags and wallets.

While handing over the equipment on Wednesday, Christophe Soulet, the Airtel Africa executive director, said the firm will always support initiatives that improve the living standards of Rwandans. He added that the firm seeks to empower the youth in all its operations.

Francine Gatesi, the president of Isano Co-operative, said the weaving machines will help increase the group’s production capacity and income.

"The computer and Internet connection will help us market our products to Rwandans and the outside world to expand market reach and enhance the group’s earnings,” she added. Gatesi noted that the group had for long wanted to tap into the opportunities presented by the Internet, but were curtailed by lack of computers and Internet connectivity.

Airtel Rwanda managing director, Teddy Bhullar re-affirmed the firm’s commitment to supporting Rwandan youth to enable them reach their full potential. Bhullar added that Airtel would continue to empower youth-oriented co-operatives and projects across the country to make them sustainable and profitable ventures.

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