GICUMBI - The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF), yesterday said that the on-going Army Week is part of the liberation struggle.

Lt. Gen Charles Kayonga said this while addressing residents of Byumba Sector, after taking part in the Army Week community work (Umuganda) to construct 100 houses for poor residents of the unity and reconciliation housing village in Nyarutarama Cell.

The village already comprises of 50 housing units which were constructed by the RDF last year.

"After liberating Rwandans from many years of dictatorial regimes, the RDF is now committed to continue its struggle to emancipate Rwandans from poverty, ignorance and disease,” said Kayonga.

Many people received medical treatment, that also included eye care, construction of houses for the poor and construction of bridges during the on-going Army Week. 
"Development cannot be achieved when some of our citizens are infected by diseases that cause blindness,” he added.

The Governor of the Northern Province, Aime Bosenibamwe, called upon residents to work hand in hand with the army during these activities, to steer the province towards socio-economic prosperity.

The chairman of the Unity and Reconciliation Village, Gad Sebagabo, hailed the RDF initiative of building houses for the poor.

"Each house is comprised of 3 spacious bedrooms, one sitting room, toilet and a water tank. The beneficiaries to these houses include Genocide survivors, Rwandans repatriated from exile and poor local residents,” said Sebagabo.

The delegation further visited RDF Army week eye treatment medical activities at Byumba Hospital.

Ends