Women Plan Rwanda (WPR) has supported 50 young women living in Mugombwa Refugee Camp in Gisagara District with chickens and menstrual hygiene kits, as part of efforts to promote nutrition and dignity in menstrual health.
The support was provided on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, under the organization’s Single Mothers Empowerment Program (SMEP) and aligned with the ongoing 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), observed internationally.
Speaking to ICK News, Dianah Mbabazi, the Communication and Development Officer at WPR, said the initiative aims to empower rural women, children, and youth to improve their well-being and economic resilience.
“During the 16 Days of Activism, Women Plan Rwanda conducted a community outreach campaign on GBV prevention, SRHR, and the promotion of gender equality at Mugombwa Refugee Camp,” she said.
“We distributed 50 chickens to help fight malnutrition, especially among children. Eggs can become a regular part of their diet, while the chickens can reproduce and serve as a source of income. We also provided 50 packs of sanitary pads to ensure girls and women manage their menstrual periods with dignity.”
Mbabazi explained that WPR implements two major empowerment programs: Drop Out Prevention Program (DOPP) to reducing school dropout among girls, and Single Mothers Empowerment Program (SMEP) to assisting young mothers facing difficult life conditions
“We offer six months of training through the Journey of Transformation initiative,” she noted.
“After training, we form savings groups to help beneficiaries develop financial discipline and learn how to manage money.”
She added that many supported women and girls have experienced trauma, including stigma or rejection, which can lower their confidence.
“Our goal is to restore their hope and remind them that they have a future, while supporting them to rebuild it. We want rural women and children to live fulfilling lives and participate in decision-making in their communities,” Mbabazi said.
Some beneficiaries shared testimonies of how the program has transformed their lives.
Aline Nyiramugisha said the support has made a practical difference.
“This project taught us how to save and support each other through small loans. It helped us manage our finances and provide for our children. Now that we also have chickens, we believe our progress will continue,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Solange Emima, said the initiative helped rebuild confidence among young mothers. “Many young mothers are rejected or looked down on, but this project reminded us that we have value and can achieve great things.”
Currently, WPR supports around 2,000 women and girls in the Southern Province, and the organization plans to expand its activities to other parts of the country.
