RUBIRIZI – The Rural Initiative for Poverty Alleviation (RIPA) has distributed a variety of livestock to households in Rubirizi District, demonstrating its firm commitment to transforming rural livelihoods.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The distribution ceremony was held on Saturday, May 26th, during a Thanksgiving Mass at the organization’s headquarters in Ryekibagane Village, Magambo Sub-county, Rubirizi District.
The function marked the second anniversary of the organization, during which livestock, including 14 cows and 20 goats, were handed to selected individuals, bringing the total number of livestock distributed to local households to an impressive 200.
RIPA Executive Director Bamugaya Vincent outlined a broader vision that goes beyond animal donations, supporting local farmers with livestock, crop farming, poultry, and backyard vegetables to fight poverty at the household level.
He emphasized the organization’s dedication to uplifting women and youth through knowledge and skills training, empowering them to start self-sustaining income projects that build a sustainable economic value chain and propel communities out of poverty.
Bamugaya further urged farmers to adopt modern agricultural practices, focus on value addition, and embrace a mindset change to boost production for long-term development, ensuring that every effort leads to lasting household transformation.
RIPA Project Coordinator Kwesiga Rosebel Akiki stated that over 200 farmers have already been trained in zero grazing, dairy farming, pasture establishment, and goat rearing, with nearly 5,000 people expected to benefit.
She added that the organization has expanded beyond livestock into poultry distribution, kitchen gardening with vegetable seeds, modern farming training, and market linkages to help farmers find buyers.
“RIPA’s work rests on five pillars: production, marketing, partnerships, savings, and conservation. We have trained over 200 farmers in zero grazing and dairy farming, benefiting nearly 5,000 people and empowering 1,000 youth through vocational training. RIPA now offers poultry, vegetable seeds, training, and market links so every household can have enough food and a stable income,” noted Rosebel Akiki.
Rubirizi Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, Hon. Nshekanabo Amidu Kaunya, lauded RIPA for complementing government efforts to reduce poverty, hunger, and family conflicts through livestock, seeds, and practical training.
“RIPA has helped the government fight poverty, hunger, and family fights by giving families a steady way to earn money. When a family has enough income, peace follows. I ask everyone to farm as a business, take good care of the animals you receive, and help your neighbors who cannot afford livestock so that change spreads across the whole district,” stated Amidu Kaunya.
Rev. Fr. Arinitwe Aventino of Rugazi Catholic Parish praised the director, Vincent, for using his wealth to uplift vulnerable families, making the poor happy and helping them feel part of the community.
The priest urged people to love God, remain united through prayer, work hard, love one another, and help neighbors in need, reminding them that helping others and praising God does not cause loss but instead increases their wealth.
Turyahebwa Inocent, Kyarisima Agnes, and Nkesiga Jane, all beneficiaries, testified that the livestock support has greatly improved their household incomes by reducing poverty, hunger, and even domestic violence in their homes.
They explained that their children go to school while they manage their homes well, drink milk, sell the surplus, and collect manure from the cow dung, confirming a steady source of income, thanks to RIPA’s support.
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