Rusizi district last week launched a new program aimed at providing over Rwf 1 million to each vulnerable family to support their small business projects and improve their livelihood.

This initiative is a result of the "Muyobozi Ca Ingando mu Bawe" program, which involves district authorities camping in remote areas to hear and address the problems faced by the population.

Dr Anicet Kibiriga, the Mayor of Rusizi district said that the camping program has enabled district officials to interact with the population, meet with private sectors, religious organizations, stakeholders, as well as sector, cell, and village authorities.

As a result, the district has partnered with an international non-government organization called GiveDirectly, which will donate the funds to poor families after a one-month eligibility screening process.

Isaac Ntirenganya, a resident of Rusizi, welcomed the initiative, saying he will use the money to expand his retail food business.

Another resident, Maria Solange Nibishaka, plans to start a small rabbit farming business and pay school fees for her child.

The initiative was launched in Butare Sector and attended by Governor François Habitegeko for Western Province.