Italian NGO builds houses for vulnerable families

GATSIBO - International Voluntary Organization for Development Association (AVSI), an Italian NGO operating in the country on Tuesday inaugurated 24 modern houses constructed for vulnerable families in Muhura Sector, Gatsibo district. According to AVSI officials, the houses were meant to boost the government’s programme of getting rid of grass thatched houses so as to change living standards of citizens. Ricardo Bevilacqud, one of the officials, told journalists that the project is in its second phase and more support for vulnerable groups was expected. ‘The houses we have handed over to vulnerable residents in Muhura is part of the second phase of our project…our officials at the social offices work with local leaders to select the most vulnerable residents that need shelter,’ he said. Patrice Ndenzayo, one of the beneficiaries hailed the NGO for helping him get out of the grass thatched house he had occupied for years. ‘I can’t express the excitement that this support gives me but I exceptionally thank AVSI for this donation,’ he said. The NGO is financed by the Italian Foreign Affairs Ministry, according to Ricardo Bevilacqud. AVSI has previously extended water projects in the districts of Gatsibo and Gicumbi in Northern Province to help rural population get access to safe water. Ends