Women urged to exploit regional markets

The Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, Rose Mukantabana, yesterday advised Rwandan women to take advantage of the opportunities that have come with the East African Community.

Friday, March 09, 2012
Mothers in Butamwa Sector, Nyarugenge District, feed their babies on a balanced diet during the Women's Day celebrations yesterday. The New Times / John Mbanda.

The Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies, Rose Mukantabana, yesterday advised Rwandan women to take advantage of the opportunities that have come with the East African Community. She made the call while speaking at the International Women’s Day celebrations held at Kabahembe Cell Mageragere Sector in Nyarugenge District.Mukantabana observed that although the government has done a lot in ensuring the development of women in the country, many were still besieged by poverty."As women, we must look at the EAC market with a keen eye, work hard and exploit it effectively. That’s when we shall develop ourselves as well as our country,” she advised.Mukantabana also called on girls to take education seriously for a better future."Girls, you must know that the government is waiting for you as tomorrow’s leaders. Therefore, in order to be good leaders, you must focus on your education, avoid abusing drugs, and distance yourselves from men who want to divert your minds from your goals,” she told the gathering.At the event, nutrition tips were given and demonstrated. Women were also sensitised on how to prevent malnutrition among children.Children were also given milk.Mukagakwisi Niyoyita, a mother of two, welcomed the tips on nutrition. She however said she was initially not aware of the International Women’s Day.