KIGALI - Through its newly established embassy, the government of Japan has signed grant agreements worth $300,000 to help establish three local projects among them giving a face-lift to Nyakabanda Micro Hydropower plant.

The grant came through the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) and is going to be used to set up an International Peace School, and building 40 ECOSAN toilets for schools in Ruhango District and rehabilitating the power plant.

The Mayor of Ruhango District, Celestin Twagirumukiza, expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of his district and pledged to ensure that the grant is appropriately utilized.

"On behalf of the people of Ruhango, we are very grateful for this support and we pledge to use the money appropriately in order to achieve the intended target,” he said.

Denis Mugabo, the Chairman of Peace International School, said that the financial assistance is going to help in accelerating the peace, unity and reconciliation processes in the country, especially when the school starts operating.

The Nyakabanda power project has been generating 12.5MW, but after its rehabilitation, it is expected to generate up to 35MW.

"We hope that our existing cordial relationship will be strengthened as we look forward to contributing to the welfare of Rwandans through partnering with them in the various development projects,” said an official from the embassy.

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