The Government in Partnership with the Rwandan Diaspora has launched a project aimed at phasing out grass-thatched houses in the country, starting with Bugesera district in the Eastern Province.

The move, dubbed ‘Bye Bye Nyakatsi’ will kick off with the construction of more than 500 modern homes for the vulnerable and disadvantaged families.

The idea, a brain child of the Rwanda Diaspora was developed during last year’s Diaspora Convention. This is a great initiative that should be supported by every right thinking member of society.

Rwanda’s history, was characterized by bad politics and unequal treatment of citizens. Consequently, some people ended up living in extremely harsh conditions. While what happened in the past cannot be changed, we have the ability and responsibility to make the future brighter and better for all Rwandans.

The massive fundraising drive that was carried out for the One Dollar Campaign, was successful and showed the spirit of solidarity among Rwandans. The same attitude should be manifested in this new endeavor to provide decent housing for needy Rwandans.

We have proved that with determination and collective effort, we can provide home grown solutions to the challenges the country faces.

This is another challenge that we should not leave to the government alone. The plight of one Rwandan should be everyone’s problem.

Ends