Local brewer, SKOL Brewery Ltd, donated community health insurance, known as Mutuelle de Santé, to 842 individuals residing in the neighbourhood of the brewery, specifically in the Nzove cell of Kanyinya sector on Wednesday, November 1.
In a press interview, Eric Gilson, the General Manager of SKOL, expressed the significance of this initiative, stating: "We’ve just donated health insurance to 185 families. SKOL Brewery Ltd is not merely a profit-driven enterprise; we recognise that a healthy society is the cornerstone of economic growth, enabling individuals to provide for their families and contribute to the nation’s development. Our dedication to sustainability reflects our long-term commitment to Rwanda’s growth.”
"SKOL Brewery Ltd remains dedicated to promoting a sustainable business model that generates a meaningful and lasting impact within the country while ensuring the responsible development of the Rwandan community,” Gilson added.
This tradition of extending a helping hand to the vulnerable and underprivileged has become ingrained within the brewery’s culture.
Ignace Kabasha, the executive secretary of Nzove, affirmed the transformative power of this annual health insurance donation, emphasising how it works alongside other initiatives to uplift the community.
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"With over 13,000 residents receiving financial assistance for health insurance, each instance of this initiative contributes to our community’s well-being. Moreover, the brewery goes a step further by providing both full-time and part-time employment opportunities to our residents, contributing to the alleviation of poverty. Coupled with the presence of the Rayon Sports FC football pitch, which attracts visitors, these initiatives collectively benefit our community in profound ways,” Kabasha said.
Claudine Turatsinze, a local resident who was among the beneficiaries of the health insurance, told The New Times: "We’re very happy to receive the insurance. Ever since the brewery came to Nzove, we’ve been receiving a lot of help to uplift us from poverty. They generously covered the costs for me and my two children. I’m committed to working hard so that next year, someone else can have this same opportunity. Having health insurance ensures the safety and financial security of my family when we face health-related challenges.”
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For over five years, SKOL Brewery has consistently supported the community, benefiting more than 3,350 individuals. This dedication encompasses a wide array of initiatives, including providing local employment opportunities, community infrastructure development, Covid-19 relief support, and various community development programmes.
Beyond their immediate community, SKOL Brewery Ltd has contributed to broader Rwandan causes. This extends to financial aid for communities affected by natural disasters, extensive support programmes for vulnerable families, professional internships for high-achieving students, scholarships for employees’ children, and backing local organisations involved in socio-economic development activities.