Families from informal settlements in Musanze district have started receiving decent shelters at the Integrated Development Program (IDP) model village in Kinigi sector, Musanze district of Northern Province.
The exercise to relocate 144 families from informal settlements began on 28th June 2021.
The recently completed model village in Kinigi will be officially inaugurated as part of celebrations of the 27th Liberation Day slated on 4th July 2021.
It is made of six three-storey blocks with 24 homes each. A home has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen and a living room, with ready furniture and a television set.
Beneficiaries already settled in new homes have received basic equipment including beddings, sanitary items and foods among others.
Speaking to the media, they have voiced appreciation to the Government for inclusive development policies that saw them becoming smart residents, optimistic for a prosperous future.
“I am very excited to receive the new home equipped with all basic needs. It has furniture, smart television, cooking gas among others. Our special thanks go to President Paul Kagame who oversees for us and relentlessly promotes our wellbeing,” said Ismael Izabiriza.
Another beneficiary, Fidèle Ntirenganya, 72, has revealed that residents resisted the relocation but were gradually convinced and changed mindsets.
“At the beginning, local leaders convened a meeting to communicate the resettlement which we resisted. We were against the decision to relocate us until we toured these homes and changed mindsets due to their magnificence. It is a great pleasure that I am among lucky residents that have received homes at the model village. I am thankful again for the decent home where I will enjoy comfort during my advanced ages,” he explained.
The mayor of Musanze district, Jeannine Nuwumuremyi has urged beneficiaries to take good care of received homes.
“These homes have been built for Kinigi residents to give them decent shelters and settle them appropriately. Kinigi’s land is productive and expensive. So, there is a need to manage efficiently. Beneficiaries’ previous did not facilitate easy access to infrastructures which are available at the model village. We want them to properly maintain these houses, infrastructures and engage in income generating activities” she noted.
The model village also has poultry houses for 8000 chickens and cowsheds for other livestock.
The village also has a nursery school, health center, business center workshop, playgrounds and kitchen gardens among others.
