Over 15 sewing machines have been donated to Genocide survivors in Kamabuye sector, Bugesera district by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants Rwanda (ICPAR) and the Capital Market Authority (CMA).

The Rwf20m donation is aimed at promoting self-reliance and fighting poverty among the population, John Munga, the deputy chief executive ICPAR, said. 

He said the support was in line with the government’s programmes to help the masses to improve their standard of living.

He called on the survivors to develop a culture of self-reliance other than waiting for handouts. Munga urged them to start income-generating projects to improve their living conditions.

According to Munga, the sewing machines will be used to train the survivors in tailoring. Those who already have the skills will also benefit, he added.

Charles Munyeshema, one of the survivors, said he was optimistic the donation would go a long way in improving their livelihoods. The survivors also received goats, food and clothes.

Earlier, ICPAR, the Capital Market Authority officials and residents visited the Ruhuha memorial site, where over 9,000 bodies of victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are buried.