WESTERN PROVINCE

RUSIZI — The National Unity and Reconciliation Commission [NURC], this week donated Frw5million and an assortment of food items worth Frw400, 000, to victims of the recent earthquake that hit the western province.

While handing over the cheque of Frw2.5m and an assortment of food items to Rusizi district mayor, Théogene Turatsinze, the executive secretary of NURC Fatuma Ndangiza, said: "Reconciliation being part of our responsibility, the commission felt concerned to help our compatriots who were displaced and traumatized by the devastation.”

Ndangiza, who later delivered the second cheque of Frw2.5 m to Nyamasheke district officials, said the commission’s first responsibility was counseling; to restore confidence and hope among the victims as they recover from the shock of the incident.

She appealed to all capable citizens, development partners and other well wishers to feel the plight of those who were affected by the quake.

Turatsinze noted that there were many issues that needed to be prioritized including building classrooms for primary pupils who are currently studying under plastic tents constructed by UNICEF, and sanitation among others.

He said the district in conjunction with Prime Minister’s office, has formed two consolidated funds from where funds can be drawn for problems requiring immediate attention.

"We formed two consolidated funds which will be giving first aid in case of an emergency,” he said.

The February 14 quake that hit the western province districts of Rusizi and Nyamasheke killed close to 40 people and left hundreds homeless.

Ends