For the second year in a row, Rwandan women living in various German cities convened in Mainz, the largest city of the state of Rhineland-Palatinate in Germany, to discuss ways through which they can implement their developmental ideas, and play a significant role as Rwandan Diaspora back home.

The occasion was also a chance for them to belatedly commemorate the International Women’s Day that falls on March, 8 every year.

The state of Rhineland-Palatinate, that has had cooperation with Rwanda which spans more than three decades, has played host to such colorful Rwandan events for many years now.

Among the themes discussed was the role of a mother in securing a bright future for a child, and how spouses can work together to improve their family situation and be part of nation-building.

Rwanda’s ambassador to Germany Igor César reminded the women of the big role they have in society and also how they have been a strong pillar in Rwanda’s development plans.

"Together you have to feel within ourselves that you have the capacity, and you have already been empowered to achieve many goals,” Amb. Cesar said.

"The Rwandan government has always been supportive of women activities and is still committed to helping you to achieve your goals,” he added.

One key factor that Amb. Cesar pointed out was the amended land law that gives Rwandan women signatory rights when their husbands are securing land titles and the fact that they have to be consulted first before a family plot of land is sold off much to the amusement of the women present.

Cesar also said, "working together is the way to go because individualistic tendencies can only hinder your progress.”

Agnes Kaligirwa, the coordinator of Rwandan women’s commission within the diaspora community in Germany, challenged her fellow women to walk the talk and come together as a formidable force to reckon with that will counter the challenges they face as the diaspora, among which cultural shock is prominent.

"There’s nothing that we can’t achieve as long as we put in the required energy and commitment, we will always achieve positive results,” Kaligirwa said.

The climax of the event was a fashion show by Rwandan youth that showcased products made in Rwanda. From March 16 -18, 2018, the youth had been attending seminars at a youth centre, as part of the activities organised by the Rwanda Diaspora community in Germany. The leaders of the Rwanda Diaspora Community in Germany, Annonciata Haberer, and Providence Tuyisabe facilitated the themes on the importance of community insurance (Mutuelle de santé) for Rwandans, and how the youth can also start micro-credit projects back home.

The Rwandan Diaspora community in Germany have previously constructed 15 classrooms at Nyarubara secondary school, Musanze District in Rwanda, worth Rwf120 million. Other projects within the education sector that have been undertaken by Rwandans living in Germany are; the construction of five classrooms and twelve latrines at Ruhehe Primary school in Gataraga Sector in Musanze.

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