Support for RDF’s anti- AIDS fight lauded

GICUMBI/RUBAVU – A non governmental organisation, Drew Cares International on Tuesday donated an assortment of communication and music equipment to Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF)’s Anti- AIDS clubs in Gicumbi and Rubavu districts.

Wednesday, June 09, 2010
RDF medical services director, Dr. Charles Murego (center) flanked by Brig. Gen Eric Murokore at the hand over ceremony of the equipment. (Photo: A. Gahene)

GICUMBI/RUBAVU – A non governmental organisation, Drew Cares International on Tuesday donated an assortment of communication and music equipment to Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF)’s Anti- AIDS clubs in Gicumbi and Rubavu districts.

In Gicumbi, the equipments were donated to the 408 Brigade, while in Rubavu district, it was given to the RDF‘s Marine regiment and the 204 Brigade.

Speaking during the hand over ceremony, Drew Cares International country director Ahmed Abajobir, said the support is geared at boosting the cubs’ anti Aids campaign among soldiers and the local population.

"The equipment shall be used by RDF 408 Anti- AIDS Clubs to disseminate messages aimed at preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS among soldiers and the local communities,” said Abajobir, promising more support. 

RDF director of medical services Dr. Charles Murego, who witnessed the hand over ceremony of the equipment hailed the donors for their continued support towards AIDS fight within the army. 

"Drew Cares International has been a partner to RDF effort to eradicate the spread of HIV/AIDS since March 2006,” said Murego. 

Receiving the donation at the 408 Brigade headquarters in Gicumbi, the Brigade commander Brig. Gen. Murokore said the equipment shall greatly benefit soldiers and the local community in their struggle to prevent the spread of the scourge. 

The Brigade currently has four Anti- AIDS clubs. They include Rengera Ubuzima, Amizero y’Ubuzima, Twese hamwe and Rebakure, according to Murokore.

According to Monique Niyonzima, the clubs’ coordinator in Rubavu, each club, has at least 70 members, including soldiers and civilians.

Ends