BURERA – Partners in Health (PIH) an NGO inaugurated seven houses constructed for the historically marginalised pygmies families living in thatched houses in Butaro sector, Burera district.

The houses, worth Rwf14 million were inaugurated by Antoinette Habinshuti, Deputy Country Director for PIH.
He announced plans to build houses for all the remaining 32 families of the group.

The pygmies, who braved a heavy downpour, danced and sang during the event meant to unveil the houses that opened a new chapter in their life. They also received house equipment including cups, and mattresses.

Partners in Health, also hired a permanent social worker to monitor their sanitation.
"We align our programmes with government policies and work along with the district leadership to provide support in various forms particularly activities geared at improving lives of vulnerable families. We also support our patients living with chronicle diseases,’’ Habinshuti, said.

Commending the donors, the District Mayor, Samuel Sembagari announced district’s plan to allocate cultivation land to the historically marginalized people.
"We have been living in deplorable and this form of support is very timely,” Fundi Munyarugarama, the group’s leader said.

Dr. Matthew Craven, Deputy District Manager-PIH, in Burera, noted that the four-roomed houses and kitchen would help improve the lives of the beneficiaries. They will also access water, education and health, he said.

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