Residents of Ngororero District, particularly in Kabaya Sector, say that the establishment of small and large factories near their communities has improved their living standards and contributed to economic development.
“Some residents of Ngororero District highlighted this while speaking to the media, stating that one of the factors that has improved their living conditions and economic well-being is the presence of nearby factories, including a company called Twese Turyoherwe Ltd, which produces a beverage called Karuhura made from Thei, Tangawizi, and umwenya.”
Uwimana Kabagwira Jeannette, a resident of Kabaya Sector who supplies banana wine and tea to the factory, said that working with the company has enabled her to purchase both small and large livestock and support her family.
She said:
“Since the factory was established here, I have managed to build my own house and my children are able to attend school because I pay their school fees. I have also bought livestock, including cows and sheep, and I even lend some to others through livestock sharing. Currently, I earn about 100,000 Rwandan francs per month from selling banana wine to this factory.”
Another resident, Niyizibyose Theoneste, who lives in Ngoma Cell, Kabaya Sector, supplies tea leaves to a factory located in Karuhura.
He said that the presence of the factory has helped him improve his economic status.He said:”Supplying fresh tea leaves to this factory helped me reach the category where I could buy a motorcycle. I have also been able to purchase land worth 500,000 Rwandan francs.”
The representative of Twese Turyoherwe Ltd, Twahirwa Corneille, emphasized that bringing the factory closer to the community has benefited both residents and the company itself.
He said:”In terms of production, we obtain between 3,000 and 5,000 liters per month. We are still in the process of growing because we are focusing on expanding and acquiring modern equipment. Our aim is to produce smaller quantities but maintain high quality. Regarding employees, the number varies because some work on a temporary basis, but we usually employ between 147 and 154 workers. About 93% are young people, and women make up 75% of the workforce. We also employ four people with disabilities.”
He added:”As for the impact of the factory on nearby communities and Rwandans in general, we have created jobs for many young people. We also train them on good financial management and discourage wastefulness. All employees are enrolled in the Ejo Heza long-term savings scheme together with their families, and they also contribute to community-based health insurance.”
The Mayor of Ngororero District, Nkusi Christophe, confirmed that the presence of factories in the district benefits both residents and the district as a whole.
He said:”First, these factories provide employment to residents, and people who enjoy these beverages can easily access them.”He also encouraged residents to develop a culture of saving and to make good use of the resources they have so they can improve their living conditions and manage their income wisely.
Currently, Ngororero District aims to further develop infrastructure including industries, electricity, clean water supply, schools, and health centers. The district is also strengthening programs aimed at improving citizens’ welfare, such as poverty reduction initiatives, community health insurance promotion, and the Ejo Heza savings scheme, among others, which are expected to help the district achieve its development goals.
