Gicumbi inmates construct housing for the needy

GICUMBI/HUYE - Inmates at Miyove Prison are set to construct hosing and over 42 toilets for vulnerable persons in Nyankenke and Miyove sectors, Gicumbi District, as part of activities to mark the Prisons week. The Prisons week is meant to rehabilitate inmates, foster unity and reconciliation as well as contribute to the development of the country, according to the National Prisons Service. Talking to The New Times on Wednesday, the Director of Miyove Prison, Alex Sano Gato, said the inmates will also repair the Kirenge- Tetero feeder road in Miyove Sector.“In addition, the prisoners shall work together with local residents to beautify Byumba town.” Gicumbi Mayor, Bonane Nyangezi, said the activities carried out during Prisons Week would help in the development of the district. “Prisons Week has set a good example, which should be emulated by all residents. Their programmes are part of the district’s strategy to maintain hygiene, green cover and beautification of our urban areas,” said Nyangezi.The head of prisoners, Evariste Kimenyi, hailed the programme, saying it exposes them to the community outside prison. “The development activities are beneficial to all Rwandans, including those in prison. It exposes prisoners to the outside world, which enables them to chat with their friends and relatives,” said Kimenyi. Meanwhile, inmates at Butare Prison have started laying bricks to build houses for vulnerable people still living in grass thatched houses in Kaburemara cell, Ngoma sector.Claude Kayijamahe, who is in-charge of security at Butare Prison, said their efforts will be mainly directed towards the eradication of grass thatched houses in the area and beautification of Huye town. “Local leaders have pledged to eliminate grass thatched houses. We want to help them achieve this goal and contribute to the development and well being of the most vulnerable people in the society,” Kayijamahe said. According to grassroots leaders, more than 30 families still live in grass thatched houses in Kaburemera cell. Ends