One-Dollar campaign reaches unexpected levels

The Diaspora General Directorate at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Minaffet) and Rwandans in general, should give themselves a pat on the back for the success of the ‘One Dollar Campaign” project. The noble initiative saw approximately 20,000 Diaspora based Rwandans, mobilise a symbolic one dollar each to raise funds meant to provide shelter, for the survivors of the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi in different parts of the country. It started as a small project but the campaign has grown far beyond the expectation and imagination of the initiators in terms of stature and accomplishment. The initiative was discussed and conceived by Rwandan Diaspora representatives and members at a Diaspora Retreat, in December last year. They then adopted and launched the project during the 15th Genocide Commemoration Week, last April. Though the original concept of the project is to collect over $100,000 in a period of 100 days, symbolising the 100 days of the Genocide commemoration (April to July), it seems the campaign is destined for bigger things. Among the latest accomplishments is the Euro 1000 donation, last week by former Miss France, Sonia Uwitonze Rolland. Another big boost to the campaign will be this week’s Star Studded Charity soccer game, again meant to raise funds for vulnerable Genocide survivors. So the Ministry concerned should not close the chapter when the scheduled closure date comes. The project has opened doors to a process that could lead Rwandans and friends of Rwanda, to helping the less fortunate, whose only cry for help, is a place to call home. Ends

Opinions

One-Dollar campaign reaches unexpected levels