RUSIZI- Muslim youth from Rusizi District and their Congolese counterparts from Bukavu town in the Democratic Republic of Congo have formed a co-operative to champion development and promote unity.

This was announced yesterday during a ceremony held in Kamembe town in Rusizi District.

 "Our major aim is to share developmental ideas and provide jobs for the unemployed Muslim youth,”   Kudra Saidi, a youth official in Kamembe Sector noted.

The youth highlighted their intended activities, challenges and strengths.

"There is a lot we can learn from each other. For instance, the reception that the Rwandans showed us is not common in the DRC. Together, we can learn values as well as develop,” said Abdullahiman Bisimwa, a youth representative from the DRC.

Their cooperation will involve starting a youth savings scheme, small income generating activities as well as teaching Islam.

The group elected a committee to follow up on the activities.

Sheikh Adam Inyange, a former Muslim leader in Rusizi and Nyamasheke districts explained why he initiated the idea of bringing the two sets of youth together.

 "In the past, youth have been considered a security threat. For example, in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the youth played a big role in the killings,” said Sheikh Adam.

"This co-operative comes to teach the youth positive values. Hard work, peace making, loving God and your neighbour are values every youth should have, regardless of their religion.”

The co-operative reportedly intends to reach out to youth in Burundi and other neighbouring countries.

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