INEZA Foundation engages Gikomero youth through reading and cultural education during holidays

By Elias Hakizimana.

Gikomero, Gasabo District — July 23, 2025— In an effort to provide meaningful holiday engagement for children and youth, Gasabo District officially launched the ‘Intore mu Biruhuko’ educational program in Gikomero Sector under the theme “A Healthy Life, My Dignity.”

The initiative, supported by INEZA Foundation, aims to keep young people active and inspired throughout the two-month school break through a range of educational and cultural activities, including book reading, writing competitions, traditional dance, civic education, and theatre.

INEZA Foundation, a local nonprofit organization, plays a key role in promoting children’s well-being by fostering literacy and cultural identity through creative programs.

Speaking at the launch, Janvier Niyonsaba, INEZA Foundation’s Program Coordinator, highlighted their multi-pronged approach to child development. Among their initiatives is Amariza-Gisozi, a youth cultural troupe composed of primary and secondary school students, recruiting children as young as four years old.

“At INEZA Foundation, we empower children through reading competitions and creative cultural engagement. One of our flagship programs, Urumuri Holiday Fest, has yielded remarkable results in promoting literacy,” Niyonsaba said.

“We also run ‘Urubohero rw’Abato, a weaving workshop that engages both in-school and out-of-school youth—boys and girls alike—during holidays. We’re proud to join ‘Intore mu Biruhuko’ this year and support as many youth as possible across various sites in Gasabo District.” he added.

Josué Niyomwungeri, a 17-year-old student in Senior Five at TTC Nyamata, is one of the standout beneficiaries of INEZA’s reading competitions. He was honored as the best performer in a recent contest.

“Reading is an inexhaustible source of knowledge and personal growth,” Josué shared. “Among my prizes were several books, including one on nutrition and another in English. I’m confident they will help improve my language skills during and beyond the holidays.”

Bernard Bayasese, Executive Administrator of Gasabo District, emphasized the importance of structured youth programs during school breaks.

“We’ve expanded the Intore mu Biruhuko program this year, with multiple designated sites across the district,” Bayasese said.

“Gikomero was selected for the official launch due to its outstanding coordination. These youth gatherings play a vital role in preventing juvenile delinquency, including drug use and early pregnancies, by promoting learning, hygiene, patriotism, and mutual respect.”

The ‘Intore mu Biruhuko’ program is expected to reach 27,140 youth across Gasabo District, including 3,701 participants in Gikomero Sector alone.

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