NORTHERN PROVINCE

MUSANZE — Local authorities have been asked to closely monitor the progress of poverty eradication activities being undertaken among poor families within the Vision 2020 Umurenge program-VUP in order to ensure that funds disbursed are not misused.

The State Minister for Local Government Christine Nyatanyi said this while visiting Gashaki one of the sectors under VUP in Musanze District.

At least 91 percent of residents in this sector are said to be poor.

The minister was impressed by the improvements registered in the area, a year after VUP was launched. Residents have so far accumulated over Rwf.2.8 million  as savings which they collected from small scale projects.

While inaugurating the programme last year, Gashaki was allotted Rwf.50 million to boost its development initiatives.

The money was particularly intended for employment creation opportunities, boost agricultural modernisation and support the health sector.

The residents had in the past lived in an isolated, poor, hilly area where agricultural production was low. Interventions have been developed whereby the people are now involved in public works and there is a shift to modern agriculture.

According to local leaders, families are now embracing a savings culture while they have all acquired health insurance, with allchildren good to school.  

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