HUYE - Over Rwf200 000 was collected during a two-day concert aimed at helping street children off the streets. 
The concert was organised by presenters of Christian programmes from different local FM radio stations together with some Rwandan gospel artists. The money will be used to get the children back to school.

Ayabba Paulin Kwizera, the coordinator of the project said it was motivated by a survey they conducted to establish the number of street children  in the district.

"Our project is focused on helping in a sustainable way those willing to rejoin their families or those wishing to have foster families for those who are homeless,” said Kwizera.

"The first step is to see them off the streets, then taking them to  school is the next phase.We intend to continue with this form of support  until they finish secondary schools or vocational training. We hope to achieve this because we have many people who have expressed interest to work with us in this noble cause,” he added.

Reverend Nathan Gasatura, the Bishop of Butare Anglican Diocese said helping children off the streets is one way of fighting crime.

"If Rwandans want to fight crimes like theft and drug abuse, they should help these children off the streets,” said Reverend Gasatura during the concert at Huye stadium.

Street children interviewed by The New Times cited conflicts in families as the main reason driving them to  the streets.

"I left my home due to misunderstandings at home,” said a malnourished Innocent Mugabo, "it is difficult to find something to eat and I sleep out in the cold, my wish is to find where to live, what to eat and go to school.”

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