Staff at the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) this week took part in an initiative that saw two houses belonging to Genocide survivors in Ruhuha Sector of Bugesera District receive a makeover to a tune of about Rwf3.8 million. 

In total, the OAG has renovated six houses occupied by Genocide survivors since 2011.

At the climax of the activity, Auditor General Obadiah Biraro said supporting the community is the only way to contribute to the development of the country since the best resource of the country is its citizens.

"Citizens are the best resource of the country. We are all moving forward towards Vision 2020. No one should be left behind. The support to vulnerable Genocide survivors is paramount. Let us help one another to move forward and share the fruits of our hard work,” he said.

Biraro said a survey conducted by his office found that Ruhuha Genocide survivors needed support because their houses were dilapidated  and they had limited sources of income.

"We have supplied clean water across the region; given them livestock (11 goats), helped them create savings groups, where everyone was given Rwf50,000 to start a small business. We also encouraged them to form savings groups to improve their livelihoods,” he added.

Viateur Ndayisabye, who represented the Mayor of Bugesera District, said since 2011, the district has registered 171 houses in Ruhuha Sector that require renovation. Fifty  have since been renovated.

He appealed to everyone to emulate the OAG, pointing out that Genocide survivors cannot take on their daily struggles alone.

Anathalie Mukagatare, 65, a resident in Kindama Cell, Ruhuha Sector, expressed joy at having her house renovated.

"I highly appreciate the improvements. I have been living in my house since 1997, but after sometime, part of the house began caving in. It was difficult for us to sleep at night because of the cold winds. We are relieved,” Mukagatare said.

Catheline Mukankusi, 61, said the renovation was a welcome gesture.

"I depend on farming. I could not afford fixing the house myself. This renovation touches my heart. I thank these good people for remembering us,” she said.