President Kagame has donated cows to 30 rehabilitated ex-delinquents to promote good behavior and reduce recidivism as part of the Girinka program. The initiative aims to assist reintegration through vocational training and meaningful employment, with the goal to prevent former delinquents from returning to negative behaviors. Graduates of the program reflect positively on their experiences, showing commitment to contributing to society.
President Paul Kagame has gifted cows to 30 rehabilitated ex-delinquents demonstrating positive behavior as part of the expansion of the Girinka program aimed at preventing recidivism. This initiative, highlighted at their graduation ceremony on March 5 at the Iwawa Rehabilitation Centre, emphasizes rewarding good conduct among trainees. The Minister of Local Government, Patrice Mugenzi, detailed that the best-performing trainee from each district would receive a cow based on peer selection to discourage relapse into delinquent behavior.
The Girinka program focuses on development, providing cows to beneficiaries to foster income generation and improve their living standards. Over 6,400 individuals have graduated from various rehabilitation centers, including Iwawa, Gitagata, and Nyamagabe, after receiving vocational training in diverse fields such as agriculture, tailoring, and masonry. The program aims to assist these individuals in reintegrating into society after their two-year training.
Rehabilitation officials have reported that approximately 17% of trainees return to rehabilitation centers due to issues like substance abuse. Fred Mufulukye, Director General of the National Rehabilitation Service (NRS), underscored the critical role of vocational training in securing employment for these graduates post-rehabilitation, which is essential for mitigating the risk of return to delinquency. Mufulukye emphasized that providing meaningful work is vital to prevent re-offending.
Graduate Jack Germain Tuyishime, 28, from Kigali, shared his positive experience at Iwawa, stating, “We had sessions with psychologists, and I really think their advice will help me once I return to my community.” Tuyishime, who trained in clothing production and holds a degree in mass communication, expressed readiness to contribute to the economy. Another anonymous graduate affirmed, “I want to contribute to the country… I am a better person now, and no longer a threat to society.”
In summary, the initiative led by President Kagame to provide cows to rehabilitated ex-delinquents represents a proactive approach to encourage positive behaviors among individuals in recovery. The Girinka program aligns vocational training with reintegration efforts, aiming to curb recidivism through employment and income generation. Success stories from graduates highlight the transformative impact of rehabilitation and societal support in fostering responsible citizenship.
Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw
