BY INNOCENT GAHIGANA The Dutch government and Department for International Development (DFID) yesterday entered into a pact for the management of Euro 30m (approx. Frw21.7 billion) funding meant for Rwanda’s education sector. The deal was clinched yesterday between the Dutch Ambassador to Rwanda, Peter Schonherr, and the British agency’s acting chief Vijay Pillai at the Finance Ministry offices. According to the agreement, DFID will manage the funding on behalf of the Dutch government. The funding covers a period of three years. “The objective of the arrangement is to improve donor-coordination and harmonising through entering into a strategic partnership between donors, thereby reducing the administrative burden for the Government of Rwanda,” a press release released after the two diplomats signed the deal said. The function was witnessed by Finance and Economic Planning Minister James Musoni, his Education counterpart Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariya. The donors pledged more funding for the country’s long-term education plan. “We expect results from various education developments to come forward” observed Pillai. Added Ambassador Schonherr: “By joining our efforts, we hope we will better facilitate Rwanda to achieve the Millennium Development Goals.” Mujawamariya said the money will be used in construction of new classrooms, among other things. On his part, Musoni said: “It is a very good thing when our partners sign an agreement for a joint effort.
