In Ntora Village, located in Ruhango Cell, Gisozi Sector, Gasabo District, underprivileged residents have received financial support to cover their health insurance (Mutuelle de Santé) following a donation of one million Rwandan francs from microfinance institution ASA International.
Ntora Village Leader, Karemera Aniceti, highlighted the inspiring story of a resident who, despite previously receiving support to pay for his own Mutuelle, has now managed to pay for three others. He emphasized that this initiative is part of encouraging self-reliance among beneficiaries, with the goal that they may one day be able to support others as well.
“This is not just talk,” Karemera stated. “We have residents who were once supported but are now helping others. One of them has already paid for Mutuelle de Santé for three fellow residents after covering his own.”
Regarding areas where residents are still reluctant or delayed in paying for health insurance, Karemera stressed the importance of continuous education. “We make it a point to remind residents during every weekly meeting, especially on Saturdays. Some people have the money but lack time to go and pay. Sector officials assist them at the village level to facilitate the process and ensure smooth payments.”
He added, “We must work together to ensure Rwandans live healthier lives.”
Christian Salifu, the country director of ASA International, explained that their corporate philosophy includes sharing the benefits they gain through business with the very communities they serve.
“The profit we make comes from the people. Therefore, we believe we have a responsibility to give back,” Salifu said.
“Today we partnered with the families in need as a way to support government programs. As you know, every Rwandan is required to have Mutuelle de Santé. We, as ASA, want to contribute to this vision so that everyone, within their means, can access healthcare.”
He added that the donation would benefit 57 families comprising a total of 330 individuals.
Salifu further called on other financial institutions to join similar efforts, noting, “We are Rwandans working for Rwanda. Our responsibilities shouldn’t be limited to the neighborhoods we live in.”
Munyaneza Jean Damascene, one of the Ntora residents who received the health insurance, expressed gratitude, explaining how it will ease his access to medical care.
“I have a child who suffers from seizures. There are times when he collapses, and now I know he can be taken to the hospital and get medicine from Ndera because I have Mutuelle,” he said.
“With six children in my family, I truly appreciate the leaders who thought of us in our difficult situation. Now we can go to the hospital without worry.”
Marie Rose Mukamurara, a mother of four in Ntora, also expressed joy in being selected as a beneficiary.
“I thank the President of Rwanda for thinking about the less fortunate like us and ensuring we’re included in all government programs,” she said.
“I’m a potter, but my job doesn’t earn me much. Given how challenging the pottery business is right now, having someone cover my Mutuelle is something I deeply appreciate.”
Ntora Village is home to about 6,000 residents. As of now, only 330 have managed to pay for their own health insurance. Local authorities are working to intensify awareness and mobilization so that all residents can meet the health insurance target by the set deadline.
