Economic empowerment of marginalized communities in Rubavu.
Hand in Hand for Development (HIHD) was founded in the Western Province of Rwanda and is now active in several regions. The NGO works with marginalized groups such as orphans, widows, unemployed young people, people with disabilities or albinism, and low-income families. Its goal is to create sustainable livelihoods and expand social and economic prospects. The programs combine entrepreneurial education, employment promotion and ecological agriculture with health education on HIV/AIDS, hygiene and family planning. At the same time, HIHD advocates for human rights and gender equality and strengthens an inclusive society through education and local networks in which all people can reach their potential.
The Rubavu district actually has good conditions for growing vegetables and cereals. However, a lack of seeds, a lack of knowledge and a lack of production resources prevent this potential from being exploited. The situation is exacerbated by crises such as the volcanic eruption and the COVID-19 pandemic, which have massively weakened the livelihoods of many families. Widows, young mothers, unemployed young people and people with HIV/AIDS are particularly affected. They have hardly any access to state support. There are also social hurdles: women are often excluded from decision-making processes, while pregnant young people are at high risk of domestic violence, exclusion and human trafficking. The consequences of the genocide and civil war continue to have an impact today and affect these groups in particular.
In the rural district of Rubavu, Hand in Hand for Development (HIHD) is opening up new perspectives for young mothers, widows and unemployed young people. The project promotes their economic independence through agricultural training, business management know-how and access to local financial resources.
Over three years, 85 participants will take part in training courses on vegetable cultivation and marketing, tailoring, weaving, cooperative management and entrepreneurial education. This is supplemented by rotating loans in the savings group model and networking with financial institutions and companies.
Thanks to funding from the Lemonaid & ChariTea Foundation, important infrastructure is being created: a greenhouse for the propagation of Irish potato seeds, a center for worm composting to improve the soil and a local market place for direct marketing. The project is thus creating the basis for sustainable economic development - with a focus on social justice, financial literacy and gender-sensitive approaches.
Patient Niyitegeka
Mail
Website: www.hihd.org.za
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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Hand-in-Hand-for-Development
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