The Ineza Foundation proudly took part in Open Day – Exhibition (DJAF 2025), an annual event organized by the Gasabo District aimed at promoting collaboration, knowledge exchange, and visibility among development partners. This forum provides a platform for stakeholders to showcase their contributions toward sustainable community development.
During the exhibition, Ineza Foundation presented a variety of locally made materials and tools, including children’s books to promote literacy, and handcrafted items made by parents involved in its empowerment programs. These included crocheted toys, tableware, shopping bags, and other household items, all designed with a focus on sustainability and local craftsmanship.
The event was officially opened by Bernard Bayasese, Mayor of Gasabo District, alongside various high-ranking district and national officials. In his remarks, the Mayor commended the role of development partners in advancing citizen well-being:
“We commend partners like Ineza Foundation who keep the citizen at the center of their work. True development starts when we educate, empower, and engage the people in shaping their own future,” Bernard said.
He urged civil society and private sector players to prioritize the community, not only through service delivery but also by equipping them with knowledge and skills to actively participate in their own transformation.
Representing Ineza Foundation, Janvier, the program coordinator, highlighted the organization’s integrated approach to sustainable livelihoods:
“We don’t just give we build capacities. Our beneficiaries receive training, tools, and market access to turn their skills into income generating opportunities,” Janvier explained.
He emphasized that Ineza Foundation also invests in Early Childhood Development (ECD) by setting up community-based centers, which not only help children grow in safe and nurturing environments but also relieve parents especially mothers so they can engage in productive work.
“We currently operate several ECD centers and have an ambitious plan to build more modern ones across the country, ensuring every child has a strong start in life,” he added.
Janvier also added that the community libraries are yielding positive results, and the Foundation encourages more people to make use of them. “Currently, each library receives between 20 to 30 children per day, as parents are increasingly sending their kids to read and learn,” he noted.
The 2025 DJAF exhibition runs from June 23 to 25 and Ineza Foundation remains a committed participant each year, using such platforms to connect with communities, showcase impact, and reinforce its presence in the districts where it operates.
