The Kingdom of Belgium on Tuesday signed an agreement with local Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) for the funding of four new projects to be implemented by the organizations. The donation is worth EUR 832,028 to be given in phases to the organizations with effect from February 2009.

"We shall give out the money in installments to ensure its equitable use before giving out more,” said Theo Baert, the Head of the Belgian Co-operation.

Some of the projects to be funded include one that supports Federation Imbaraga to implement agricultural strategic plans meant to transform agriculture in Rwanda.

This Project will be implemented within two years in the 24 districts of Rwanda and its budget is worth EUR 242,432.

The next project is on strengthening the economic power of women in the Northern Province, which will be carried out by the Twese Hamwe and it will cover Musanze, Gakenke, Rulindo, Burera and Gicumbi districts.

It will feature Agriculture, vocational trainings and handcraft. It will run for two years and is worth EUR 223,732. The third one is on Bee keeping for.

"This will help eradicate poverty without passing through the farming process,” Iso Goemans the Belgian Ambassador to Rwanda explained.

Landless women in Gasabo, Bugesera, Nyarugenge and Muhangawill receive  EUR 170’154 for Bee keeping projects.

"This agreement is a way to empower and build the capacity of local organizations in Rwanda,” said Goemans.

The Belgium government has for years been funding several development activities ranging from health, education and agriculture.

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