Skills training planned for more ex-combatants

The National Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission (NDRC), has launched a screening exercise of ex-combatants to establish vulnerable members who would benefit from skills training programme and work kits. The programme targets about 697 vulnerable former combatants in the districts of Nyarugenge, Gasabo, and Kicukiro alone. To be eligible, individuals must have little education or not educated at all, have many dependants. Speaking at the screening exercise at Nyarugenge District, yesterday, the NDRC Commissioner in charge of Kigali City, Brig. Gen. John Peter Bagabo, said the programme is a vital component of the government’s reintegration programme. He disclosed that after the exercise, those who will be selected and have previously received vocational skills training- will receive work kits immediately- while those meant to be trained will also start a six-month vocational training before the end of the year. “The programme is aimed at sustainable integration of ex-combatants through enhancing skills and provision of work kits to enable them to cater for themselves and their families,” he said. “We appeal to beneficiaries to have discipline and use whatever support they get efficiently.” Bagabo appealed to former fighters who would benefit from the training to join cooperatives in their respective home districts, from where they can put their skills to proper use. The commission has previously trained about 900 ex-combatants in carpentry, building, hair dressing, plumbing and electric installation. Ends