GATSIBO – Several youth in Kabarore Sector, Gatsibo District are registering high returns from their shoemaking venture, courtesy of skills they acquired from the Centre for the Promotion of Small and Medium Enterprises in Rural Areas (PPPMER).

One of the beneficiaries, Etienne Hakizimana, observed that his business had progressively grown into a profitable enterprise having started the venture with a meagre Rwf5, 000.

"After the PPPMER training, I started my business with Rwf5, 000. But later, my shoemaking enterprise gradually grew. I currently employ over five employees who earn a monthly salary of Rwf70, 000 each,” he said.

According to Hakizimana, his enterprise, Atelier de fabrication de Chaussure manufactures shoes from hides.

"I secured a market in the province and I am able to sell each pair of shoes at Rwf20, 000,” said Hakizimana, a high school leaver.

The enterprise accountant, Perpetie Uwamahoro, told The New Times they intend to set up a shoe manufacturing factory despite limited funds.

"Our capital is still meagre with lack of skilled manpower. But we have a vision of setting up a big factory that will capture wider markets,” she said.

Atelier de fabrication de Chaussure presently makes a monthly profit of Rwf1 million and aim to double the figure soon.