What they say about Agaciro Development Fund

Early last month, Rwandan launched Agaciro Development Fund, a move set to raise more domestic resources to help accelerate economic development. Since its launch, over Rwf 14 billion has been raised. The government says the Fund would not replace the traditional sources of state revenues, including donor aid, but will supplement them instead.The Sunday Times talked to some Rwandans living in Kigali what they make of Agaciro Development Fund.Darlene Ishimwe Agasaro Keza, 15, is a student at Lyée de Kigali. I live in Remera and though I don’t have money today to give as a student, what I can say is that the Agaciro Development Fund is a good idea.. Begging is not good. Sometimes, aid comes with strings attached.I think the gesture is good and it must be supported. Rwanda is our country and we are the ones to build it together with all Rwandans.Once the money is ready, I think it can be used in any project as long as it will improve the lives of Rwandans in general.Innocent Ntamugabumwe, 28, works with local defense force and lives in Gatsata sector. He says it was timely to launch Agaciro Fund. He says Rwandans are innovative people and should keep the flame burning.I am Francine Mukakinani, 41, and resident of Gatenga sector in Kicukiro District. The initiative is great and will add value to the economy. We need to show donors that we are able to do something by ourselves in a small way. We can’t sit and wait for their help every time. Although I haven’t got money to give, I know anytime, I will join others and contribute, no matter how small or how long it takes.Rwandans should show commitment and love their country. I think the money collected should be used in improving quality education in schools, supporting poor families or develop infrastructures like roads. We need drugs in hospitals.Fabrice Shema, 35, is a businessman. He said he welcomed the initiative and it was too late to launch it. “We should have launched it many years back. But better late than never. I will educate my friends why it is important to support Agaciro Fund,” he said. “Since it is a voluntary activity and annual, people who don’t have money today can contribute any time. I think there is a lot to learn from Rwanda”.Eugene Muhawenimana, 30, is a motorcyclist and a resident of Rusororo. “I am proud for being a Rwandan. In this competitive world, we need to be innovative for this country to develop.I think if we had started this idea long a go, the country would have achieved wonderful development. We need drugs in hospitals, we need training, clean water and better roads, he pointed out.“However, this cannot be achieved when we are depending on money from donors alone. The leadership is doing a great job”.Damien Munyarugerero, 49, lives in Kimihurura. “We are contributing for the development of our motherland. We will keep contributing. My opinion is that the money should be used in making it possible for us to get clean water”.Annoncée Mukamuvuma, 28, is a farmer and a resident of Rutunga sector in Gasabo District. She says when she heard of Agaciro and warmly welcomed it and felt committed to contribute despite not earning a lot. “I come from a rural area and I am not rich, but I contributed for Agaciro development Fund because it is my responsibility and the rest of Rwandans to love our country. The most important thing is to make sure that the money is used properly.The money should be used in the development of the most pressing needs because there are many. We need electricity,” Mukamuvuma.