On July 29, 2025, Dufatanye Organization, in collaboration with the Suyana Foundation and local authorities, officially launched the Village of Hope Project in Rwabicuma Sector, targeting the villages of Kadusenyi, Karwiru, and Nyamiseke in Nyanza District. This transformative three-year initiative (2025–2028) is designed to empower 550 vulnerable households, improve living standards, and promote long-term community-led development.
The Village of Hope Project adopts a holistic approach to combating poverty and fostering sustainable development. Key interventions include the promotion of modern agricultural techniques, establishment of household kitchen gardens, and the planting of fruit and environmental trees. These activities support SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by enhancing food security and restoring ecosystems. The project also introduces the cultivation and use of medicinal herbs, promoting community health and traditional knowledge in alignment with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).
In addition to agricultural development, the project places significant emphasis on sanitation, gender equality, and climate resilience. It will provide 185 improved household toilets, reusable sanitary pads for women and girls, and water storage tanks to support irrigation during dry seasons. These actions directly contribute to SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). A community food bank will also be established to support post-harvest food storage and improve access to markets, enhancing food security and local economic stability.
The project further supports early childhood education by working with nearby Early Childhood Development (ECD) centers and schools to create a stronger foundation for learning, contributing to SDG 4 (Quality Education) and Rwanda’s broader vision of a skilled and empowered population.
During the launch event, the Projects Manager from Dufatanye Organization outlined the activities to be implemented in the three villages. He emphasized that the central aim of the project is to work hand in hand with community members to lift themselves out of poverty. He encouraged residents to take ownership of the initiative, stressing that success will depend on their active involvement, commitment, and willingness to apply what they learn.
The Mayor of Nyanza District commended the initiative and urged the community to fully embrace the opportunity. He reminded participants that “everyone should be committed and apply what they learn, so that this project does not leave them in the same situation it found them.” The mayor described the project as a unique and valuable opportunity and thanked the Suyana Foundation for supporting the people of Kadusenyi, Karwiru, and Nyamiseke in such a meaningful way.
The launch event was met with strong enthusiasm from community members, who expressed gratitude and pledged their full participation in the activities. Their collective commitment is expected to play a key role in ensuring the project’s long-term success and impact.
The Village of Hope Project stands as a powerful example of community-driven development and effective collaboration. By addressing critical challenges such as poverty (SDG 1), hunger (SDG 2), health (SDG 3), education (SDG 4), gender equality (SDG 5), access to clean water (SDG 6), climate adaptation (SDG 13), and environmental conservation (SDG 15), the project provides a comprehensive framework for uplifting vulnerable families. With strong local participation and leadership, the initiative is poised to create lasting change for 550 households in Rwabicuma Sector, and support Rwanda’s national goals under Vision 2050 and the National Strategy for Transformation ensuring that no one is left behind on the path to sustainable prosperity.