Compassion International, through the association of Christian faiths in Rubavu District has donated 22 hybrid cows to the neediest families as part of the countrywide cattle –stocking programme known as Gir’Inka.

The One-cow-per -family campaign is a government initiative that was launched by the President to improve the livelihoods of citizens through access to milk and other cattle-related products.

"Compassion International is trying to reach out to all needy people in the country without discrimination and help improving their social welfare,” said Octave Rukundo, Director of Compassion in Rubavu and Rutsiro districts.

The organisation has so far given out 84 cows countrywide worth Rwf 15 million in the first phase as well as paying medical insurance for the poor worth Rwf 45 million.

Rukundo said priority is given to the most vulnerable; orphans, widows as well as people living HIV/AIDS.

Once the cow produces, the beneficiaries of the project are expected to pass on the calf to their neighbours who have not received a cow to continue the chain until every Rwandan has a cow.

Mariam Nyirambitsemunda, a beneficiary was all praises to the donors.

"I never dreamed of owning a cow in my life, but courtesy of Compassion, I got one and my children will have enough milk,” she said.

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