30 women entrepreneurs were over the weekend awarded certificates after completing a two-month training in business and leadership conducted by the Institute for Economic Empowerment of Women (IEEW).

Speaking during the ceremony, the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Dr. Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya, hailed the government for its drive in empowering women.

Congratulating the graduates, the minister urged them to reflect the knowledge they have acquired through their deeds in society.

"When you empower women, you empower the whole family and the whole nation,” Mujawamariya said.

She advised the women to work hand-in-hand with their husbands.

The coordinator of the program, Dr. Holly Hixson, said that they believe "a country that is economically sound has a greater capacity of peace”.

Of the 30 women who were trained, 15 were selected to go for further training in the United States.

"It is our mission to empower women. The women receive training both in the country and in the United States, through classes and mentorship,” Hixson said.

This program was initiated in 2007 and extended to Rwanda in 2008. The next intake is slated for June.

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