President Kagame Supports Ex-Delinquents with Cows to Promote Rehabilitation

President Paul Kagame has donated cows to thirty ex-delinquents as a part of the Girinka programme, aimed at reducing recidivism. Minister Patrice Mugenzi stated that best-performing trainees will receive support in the form of cows to aid their livelihoods. Reports show that over 6,400 individuals have graduated from rehabilitation programs, with a need for post-rehabilitation employment to prevent delinquency recurrence.

President Paul Kagame has generously donated cows to thirty ex-delinquents exhibiting exemplary behavior following their rehabilitation. This initiative is a component of the Girinka programme, aimed at reducing recidivism among rehabilitated individuals. Minister of Local Government, Patrice Mugenzi, officiated at the graduation ceremony held on March 5 at the Iwawa Rehabilitation Centre, emphasizing that the best-performing trainees will receive a cow from the President to encourage good conduct.

Mugenzi noted, “One trainee with the best conduct of all those who come from the same district will be supported with a cow. They will be selected by their colleagues, and this is one of the measures to curb the number of ex-delinquents returning to the rehabilitation centre.” The Girinka programme is strategically designed to enhance development, providing cows that will enable trainees to secure occupations and improve their livelihoods.

To date, over 6,400 individuals have successfully graduated from rehabilitation programs at Iwawa, Gitagata, and Nyamagabe centers and are preparing to reintegrate into society after two years of training in various trades including agriculture, tailoring, and masonry.

Previous assessments reveal that approximately 17 percent of trainees relapse into delinquency, often due to factors such as drug abuse. Director General of the National Rehabilitation Service, Fred Mufulukye, emphasized the importance of vocational training for graduates, stating that securing employment post-rehabilitation is vital in averting recidivism. He cautioned, “If they are not working, the likelihood of returning to delinquency will remain high.”

Graduates, such as Jack Germain Tuyishime from Kigali, expressed optimism regarding their futures after attending Iwawa. Tuyishime remarked, “We had sessions with psychologists, and I really think their advice will help me once I return to my community.” As a university graduate in mass communication, he mentioned his readiness to work in the clothing industry or public relations, emphasizing a desire to contribute positively to society.

Another graduate, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated, “The blame is on me seeing my peer group contributing to national development. I am a better person now, and no longer a threat to society.” This reflects the commitment of the rehabilitation initiatives in transforming lives and promoting social reintegration.

The initiative to provide cows to ex-delinquents by President Paul Kagame highlights a proactive approach in rehabilitation aimed at reducing recidivism through constructive measures. The Girinka programme’s integration with vocational training emphasizes the necessity of employment in ensuring successful reintegration into society. The positive testimonials from graduates illustrate the transformative impact of these rehabilitation efforts on both individuals and the wider community, fostering a sense of responsibility and contribution to national development.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw