NYAMASHEKE-Cell and village leaders in Nyamasheke District have vowed to advance agricultural production under the land consolidation policy in order to boost food security.

This was agreed upon during a function to celebrate the district’s achievements, including its good performance in the 2011 performance contracts execution, a trophy from the Rwanda Development Board for good service delivery and another from the National Electoral Commission, among others.

The function was witnessed by members of the District Advisory Council.

The leaders also committed themselves to improve service delivery, hygiene and education.

According to the Mayor of Nyamasheke District, Jeanne Baptiste Habyarimana, it was the first time leaders of all levels make such a commitment.

"This is some sort of brainstorming to regain the first position in the 2012 performance contracts. They have pledged according to the 28 objectives Nyamasheke District highlighted in the performance contracts,” said the Mayor.

In the 2011 performance contract evaluation, the district emerged second countrywide while in 2010; the district was in the pole position.

District leaders believe that once the grassroots commitments are implemented, the district would regain first position.

"What the cells set out to do is more technical as it involves a lot of co-ordination while at the village (Midugudu) level, it involves a lot of mobilisation,” commented Catherine Gatete, the Vice Mayor in charge of  Social affairs.

Meanwhile, the private sector pledged to invest in infrastructure to encourage tourism in the area.

"We look forward to investing in any key areas that will develop our district. We, however, request the district authorities to request banks to open branches here. That’s the only way money will remain here and develop even the poorest of the residents, "said Venuste Hajyambere, chairman of the Private Sector, Nyamasheke District.

Ends