NORTHERN PROVINCE

GICUMBI — The Rwanda Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (RDRC) on Monday inaugurated five houses constructed for the disabled ex-combatants in  Gicumbi district. The houses were constructed within four sector units.

Shangasha got two houses, while Rushaki, Kageyo and Rutare Sectors each got one house. They were commissioned by the Northern Province RDRC Commissioner, Fred Nyamurangwa, and the District Executive Secretary Damas Higiro, who represented Mayor Bonane Nyangezi.

"Beneficiary ex-combatants to the housing scheme include those whose disability falls in the first category. Government is committed to providing them with self contained houses, in addition to free treatment, ration cash allowance of Rwf.50,000 per month and free transport costs across the country,” said Nyamurangwa.

The houses were constructed by Rwagasana Enterprise (ERT), whose proprietor Tom Rwagasana was present at the ceremony. The houses were categorised into standard and special houses.

"The standard houses are comprised of three bedrooms with  a living room, kitchen, toilet and store, while special ones contain five bedrooms comprising a seating room, toilet, kitchen and store in addition to a rain harvesting water tank,” said Rwagasana.

The standard houses were constructed at the cost of Rwf.12 million each, while the special ones cost Rwf.15 million each. 

Nyamurangwa cautioned the ex-combatants against selling the houses.

"Local authorities at Cell, Sector and district level have been notified not to accept any sale of houses belonging to disabled ex-combatants,” he said.

Higiro assured RDRC full cooperation to ensure all disabled ex-combatants in the first category get accommodation.

"The peace and tranquillity we are enjoying now is attributed to the sacrifice made by these disabled ex-combatants, who fought gallantly to liberate Rwanda,” said Higiro.

One of the beneficiaries for a special five bed roomed house at Kageyo Sector is 2nd lieutenant Augustine Rubibi who is married with three children. He hailed the government for supporting the disabled ex-combatants.

"I am so grateful for this offer from government, which has enabled me get decent accommodation.”

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