NGORORERO - A new mini hydro-power station built at Kavumu in Ngororero District has boosted business in the area, local leaders say.

"Doing business is more profitable in the area and these activities have also increased the sector’s tax revenue target from Rwf 18 million to Rwf 19 million,” said Kavumu Sector Executive Secretary, Jean d’Amour Kavange.

The power plant serves schools, health centre, bars, hair salons, shops and 45 homes in the area, with many a trader operating beyond 10 o’clock, unlike in the past.

Speaking to The New Times, Kavange explained that the recently completed power source was built using financial contributions of residents and community work (Umuganda).

"The need for electricity was a major priority in the area and residents managed to contribute funds and offered manpower to build the power source which cost about Rwf 18 million,” Kavange said.

A bar owner, Emmanuel Hakizimana, says power has added value to his business and patrons keep flocking in for cold beers and soft drinks.

The local community is now seeking the government’s contribution so as to add on to another Rwf 15 million power supply project to circulate power to the whole sector.

The Ministry of Local Government will next month recognise the power project as one of the outstanding initiatives by local communities in the monthly Umuganda.

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