KICUKIRO - Former combatants with the then Rwanda Patriotic Army, who were disabled during the liberation struggle are thankful to the ongoing developmental activities by the Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF), through the Army Week.

This year’s Army Week started on July 2, and will go on up to August.

According to the coordinator of the activities, Brig Gen Jacques Musemakweli, this year’s activities are partly dedicated to improving the living standards of the ex-combatants.

"We focus on needy ex-soldiers, especially those who live with disabilities. The developmental activities are essential for their welfare, considering their condition,” he said.

Among the projects is a six kilometre road presently under construction, which connects two communal settlements housing the ex-combatants in Nyarugunga sector, Kicukiro District, to the main road.

One beneficiary, John Ndekezi, hopes that the road would boost their agricultural activities, which include a five-acre vegetable farm.

"Our produce will increase because with the road, we will be in a position to supervise the work on the farms,” Ndekezi said.

The activities of ex-soldiers in this sector are coordinated under their 53 -member cooperative, Impuhwe.

A kraal of 20 hybrid cows is also under construction, a project that would boost incomes and improve nutrition among their families upon completion, according to Ndecyezi.

The cooperative will also set up a fish pond as well as expand its horticultural projects.

Apart from supporting ex-combatants during the Week, RDF also renders professional services to citizens. Recently, RDF offered medical treatment to 3,580 patients in Gisagara District.

Ends