RWAMAGANA - A local NGO known as CREDI, on Friday donated 12 donkeys to farmers in Gahengeri sector, Rwamagana district.

The donkeys were bought under support from the survivors’ fund (SURF), a funding line based in the UK.

The donkeys, that are drought-resistant, were imported from Kapchorwa district in Uganda at Rwf 3 million.

Wilson Gabo, SURF national coordinator, said his organization offered the support for the purpose of boosting rural livelihoods.

"Our aim is always to cater for vulnerable women and children. Domestic work deprives women and children of time to carry out other useful activities. The donkeys will be used to undertake manual work that has been the responsibility of women and children,” he said.

Nehemie Uwimana, the Rwamagana Mayor said the arrival of the donkeys in the district commences another chapter in rural farming.

Advising the residents to allocate the donkeys to supplement the work of the existing cooperatives, the Mayor talked of the need to utilize the new transport system effectively.

"One donkey can do manual work for at least five homes, meaning that its potential to boost family incomes is huge,” he told farmers.

Asuman Bagara, a trainer in donkey transport said people will be trained in the usage and behavior of donkeys.

According to him, a donkey can carry between 150 and 200 kilograms, depending on the topography of the area.

Jean Baptiste Mulinda, one of the beneficiaries, said he was pleased with the support.

"Having been a farmer for many years, I am positive that the support will boost my income in the coming days,” he said.

The districts of Gatsibo and Rulindo also received donkeys for the same purposes.

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