GICUMBI –. The Executive Secretary of the Northern Province, Deo Kabagamba on Wednesday advised local artists to make durable and quality products capable of competing on the local and international market.     

Kabagamba made the call at Byumba Taxi Park during an exhibition of local artists’ products. The event was organized by the Rural Small and Micro Enterprises project (PPPMER), which is under the ministry of Trade and Industry.  

"Government is committed to supporting local artists, which is why you should make durable and quality products,” he said. 

Kabagamba further advised local artists to make light portable materials convenient for foreign tourists, who travel by air. "You should also not charge exorbitant prices for your products, so as to attract more buyers,” he added.   
 
Exhibitors, drawn from northern districts of Musanze, Gakenke, Gicumbi, Rulindo and Burera displayed a variety of craft items.

They included chairs and shoes made from banana fibers, drawings depicting Rwandan culture and portraits of Rwandan mountain Gorillas made from local wood among other things. 

The best exhibitors were awarded Gold, Bronze and Silver medals. Odette Mukabunane, from Byumba Sector, Gicumbi district was awarded a Gold medal, for her exemplary work of making shoes out of banana fibers.

"I am extremely happy to receive this award and hope to perform even better in future,” said Mukabunane. 
Also present at the function was PPPMER coordinator Francine Tumushime and Gicumbi district vice Mayor for Social Affairs, Eugenie Uwamahoro. 

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