In
his speech, Governor Ntibitura expressed gratitude to the national leadership
for implementing gender equality policies that ensure women have a role in Rwandan
society. He noted that these policies have empowered women to contribute to
their personal development, their families, and the nation at large.
The
Governor also called on both men and women to work together to prevent family
conflicts, protect young girls from early pregnancies, combat child
malnutrition, ensure that children attend school, and maintain hygiene and
sanitation.
The
day’s celebrations in Rutsiro District also included the official recognition
of 16 families previously living in informal settlements, awards to women who
have excelled in their communities, and a livestock distribution program under
the Girinka initiative.
Among
those who shared their testimonies was entrepreneur Anitha Ingabire, who
recounted the challenges she overcame to build and sell houses in Kigali.
Originally
from Rutsiro District, Ingabire explained that her childhood hardships,
including poverty and neglect from her father, motivated her to focus on her
goals. She encouraged young girls facing early pregnancies not to give up on
life.
At
26 years old, Ingabire has successfully ventured into real estate in Kigali. On
March 8, 2026, she shared her story in Kivumu Sector, Rutsiro District, during
the Western Province’s International Women’s Day celebrations.
Ingabire
studied at Buganamana Primary School and continued her secondary education at
GS Kivumu, facing financial challenges along the way. Her academic excellence
led the Forum for African Women Educationalists Rwanda (FAWE) to sponsor her
education at Groupe Scholaire Officiel de Butare.
While
studying in Butare, Ingabire also learned Chinese, a skill that allowed her to
earn money by assisting Chinese workers building a road in Rubavu during school
holidays. This experience later enabled her to pursue further studies in China.
During
her address, Ingabire announced the launch of initiatives aimed at empowering
women and girls. She said, “I started a project to support women and girls in
achieving self-reliance. I know there are young girls who drop out of school
due to early pregnancies. With the limited resources I have, I will cover
school fees and meals for 100 students.”
She
praised the Rwandan government for creating opportunities that help citizens
improve their livelihoods. She encouraged young people to learn practical
skills such as sewing, social media communication, driving, and more.
“Dear
youth, even if you are a young mother or know someone facing such challenges,
my mother and I are living proof that the future can be bright,” she said.
In
Rutsiro District, the International Women’s Day celebrations were marked by
various activities, including reconciling 15 families previously living in
conflict, handing over 70 houses to families affected by disasters, and
honoring women who have made exceptional contributions to the development of
their households.
Governor Jean Bosco Ntibitura and Members of Parliament celebrate outstanding women during International Women’s Day
MP Marie Rose Mureshyankwano presents certificates to women in Rutsiro District in recognition of their exceptional achievements
Sixteen families previously living in informal settlements officially registered their unions under the laws of the Republic of Rwanda
Anitha Ingabire greets Senator Marie Rose Mureshyankwano after delivering her testimony as an empowered woman
Anitha Ingabire demonstrates how she grew up with dreams to overcome all the challenges she faced in life
