Livestock for 200 Poor Families in Rulindo, Rwanda

Dr Patrons,

The incidence of poverty in rural areas of Rwanda is significantly higher than in urban centers, with 32.1% of rural populations living in poverty compared to 13.4% in urban areas. In light of these challenges, this project aimed to support 200 poor families in the Burega sector of the Rulindo District by providing pigs to help them establish a source of income. The pigs, which could be raised and bred, would serve as both a source of income and an agricultural asset, with their manure enhancing crop yields.

The project had a total funding goal of $15,000, of which $14,350 remains unmet. Despite the funding gap, the initiative's mission remains strong: to enable families to acquire a steady source of income, improve their health, and enhance their standard of living.

Challenge: Rwanda is a landlocked country where 39% of the population lives below the poverty line, and 16% experience extreme poverty. In rural areas like Burega, the population faces common barriers such as limited access to infrastructure, infertile land, and low household incomes. These challenges hinder the ability of families to escape poverty and secure basic needs such as education, health care, and nutritious food.

Solution: This project aimed to provide 200 families in Burega with the opportunity to raise and breed pigs as a stepping stone for developing a sustainable livestock business. The Rwandan Youth Development and Voluntary Organization (RYDVO) committed to offering essential support, including shelters for the pigs, food, veterinary care, and technical farming skills training. This approach not only empowered families economically but also promoted the development of the region by lifting households out of poverty.

Long-Term Impact: By providing a sustainable income, the project aimed to transform the lives of 200 families, allowing them to afford education for their children, access health care, and provide nutritious meals. The long-term goal was to help break the cycle of poverty in Rulindo District, fostering financial independence and contributing to the broader development of Rwanda.

Although the project has not yet been fully implemented due to a lack of funds, we remain committed to its success and hope to mobilize the remaining resources necessary to make a lasting impact on these families’ lives.