KIGALI - Benishyaka Association, a local NGO that focuses on improving the welfare of widows and orphans, yesterday, awarded certificates to 23 orphans who successfully completed a course in tailoring.

The event, which took place at the association’s headquarters in Remera, also saw the beneficiaries walking away with start-up kit that included new sewing machines donated by World Vision.

Highlighting the achievements of the association over the past decade, Betty Gahima, the association’s Executive Secretary, said they have so far facilitated the education of over 10,000 people.

"All these orphans have completed university and are employed in various institutions. But this time we had to look at orphans who did not attend high school to help them acquire life-saving skills,” she said.

Gahima added that when the association gets more funding, they will increase the support to include more orphans.

She added that the association has achieved a lot and would like to build on the success registered.

"I am happy for the new machine…it is already a starting capital for me,” said Jane Tumukunde, one of the beneficiaries.

Jeanette Mukarwego, another beneficiary, said the skills she attained will help her raise her two children and pay for their education.

Benishyaka Association was started in 1994 by eight women to address the socio-economic needs of the people affected by the Genocide against the Tutsi.

Ends