Rwanda Union of the Blind Distributes Small Livestock to Empower Visually Impaired Persons Nationwide

Persons with visual impairments have expressed their newfound capability to care for small livestock after receiving training at the Masaka Resource Centre for the Blind, allowing them to reintegrate into normal life. They shared their experiences during a ceremony in the Kibangu sector of Muhanga district on February 28, 2025, where they received goats from the Rwanda Union of the Blind, in collaboration with the Swedish Association of the Visually Impaired.

The “Umucyo mu Bukire” association in the Kibangu sector is one of six associations of Persons with visual impairments that received support in the form of small livestock, part of an initiative worth over 4,000 U.S dollars.

Dr. Betty Mukarwego, President of the Rwanda Union of the Blind, explained that the six associations were selected from 16 launched by the Swedish Association of the Visually Impaired to provide support. These organizations have been instrumental in assisting individuals with visual impairments.

“Today, three associations in Muhanga district received livestock, and the Swedish delegation visited Kibangu to assess their need for this support, which can significantly improve their lives. We are here today to distribute ten goats to ten selected members,” she stated.

“We hope these goats will benefit our members, as many of them passed through our Masaka Resource Centre for the Blind, where they were trained in animal husbandry, managing livestock, feeding, and other related skills. We are confident they have the knowledge, and those who haven’t been to Masaka will be supported by others in this association. They have promised to take care of the goats, providing them with medicine and proper feed.” Dr. Mukarwego added.

Cleophas Rukiramacumu, one of the beneficiaries, shared that the livestock will help increase his agricultural productivity. He emphasized that after receiving training at the Masaka Resource Centre for the Blind, he now has the skills to take care of livestock.

“I learned to communicate effectively after joining the Masaka Resource Centre for the Blind, which helps Persons with visual impairment reintegrate into everyday life. Blind persons may feel hopeless, but at this center, they learn to live independently, farm, and become self-sufficient rather than relying on handouts,” he said.

Another beneficiary, Josephine Mukamusoni, remarked, “The goat I received, if it breeds successfully, will help me achieve self-sufficiency. Previously, I had three cows but lost all my livestock, and I’ve always yearned to own livestock again.”

Valerie Mukamutari, Executive Secretary of Kibangu Sector and part of the livestock distribution team with RUB officials, urged recipients to care for their animals diligently to ensure they thrive and benefit the entire community.

“Some recipients fail to provide proper care for the livestock they receive. However, I trust you because you genuinely need this support. Make the most of this opportunity,” she encouraged. She also advised them to consider starting small-scale projects and applying for loans through the VUP (Vision Umurenge Program) to help implement their ideas.