GASABO - First Lady, Jeannette Kagame, yesterday commended girl guides in the country for their peace-building initiatives that, she said, have played a significant role in improving the socio-cultural and economic conditions of women.

Mrs Kagame made the remarks during celebrations to mark the 30th anniversary of the Association of Guides in Rwanda (AGR), which took place at Amahoro National Stadium.

The day coincided with the celebration of 100 years since the creation of World Association of Guides and Scouts.

The First Lady challenged the guides to keep up with the good work, which she said portrays the legacy of women empowerment in the country.

The celebrations attracted several government officials as well as guides from Burundi, DRC France and Germany.

"When you say that you are pillars of our future, it gives us hope because we see passion and commitment coming from women who have self esteem and patriotism,” she told the guides.

"In you, we are sure that we have planted good seeds. Therefore, you must grow, extend and share with each other ideas that will benefit our society.”

The First Lady, who was at one time an active Girl Guide, reminded the audience that "once a guide always a guide.”

She advised the young guides to concentrate on their education in order to improve the quality of their lives and contribute to the development the nation.

"Many young girls get pregnant at an early age, which affects their education and health. As guides, you must sensitize the youth about the dangers of HIV/AIDS and also compel them to stay in school,” Mrs. Kagame said.

The Commissioner General of AGR, Alexia Nkurunzinza, said that an international camp was held in Gahanga, Kicukiro District, which brought together guides from France, Germany, Congo, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

During the camp various community-based activities were held, including Umuganda and building rabbit hutches for orphans.

The guides also conducted discussions on reproductive health, leadership, self-esteem and empowerment.

"In the last 30 years, AGR has registered several achievements aimed at sustainable development of the country; in particular the improvement of the welfare of its members as well as that of Rwandan women,” Nkurunziza said.

The Association of Guides in Rwanda boasts a membership of over 11,000 girls and women.

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