Duterimbere A.S.B.L, a non-profit making organization, yesterday, held its 22nd general assembly and vowed to put in more effort in supporting women to start income generating activities.

Started in 1997, the NGO provides credit facilities and business training to women, and that it currently runs 11 branches countrywide.

"We plan to open more branches in Rusizi and Rubavu districts as well as another branch in Kigali City and one in Nyabugogo to extend our services closer to these busy centres,” said the NGO’s president, Francoise Kayiganwa.

She explained that the two branches in Kigali will soon open while current studies in the two mentioned districts have reached final stages.

Felicite Musabyemariya, a representative of the NGO in Rusizi District said opening operations in the area will relieve women who have to move long distances in search for the services.

"Some women have had to incur transport costs all the way to Huye District since it’s the nearest branch,” Musabyemariya said. She added that it is expensive and time consuming.

The annual meeting brings together members to check on the performance and draw future plans.

During the meeting, members had an open discussion on ways to further strengthen and improve services. The 2010 report was presented to the members and a five-year plan unveiled.

Ends