The FCAP equips community members with the skills to work collaboratively, make transparent decisions, and lead their own development.
Through weekly FCAP meetings, village members identify challenges, select profitable projects, and receive a seed microgrant from Spark Microgrants to bring their plans to life.
This process provides both financial assistance and expert guidance, helping residents gain the confidence to drive their own initiatives.
Community members happily report gaining valuable skills in financial management and in designing effective development plans.
Clémentine Nyirakamagaza explained that she was among the first in Bucyaba village to attend training sessions part of the FCAP. Today, she leads FCAP activities in her community.
“When FCAP started in our village, some people did not understand it and participation was low. We were trained first, then we went out to sensitize others. Those who accepted joined the groups, and together we started solving problems,” she said.
“The program gave us confidence. I realized that taking care of the household does not only mean providing food, but also paying attention to cleanliness. The training became a starting point for self-development. Today, I have been able to buy two plots of land and renovate my house,” added Nyirakamagaza.
Phineas Rwamanywa, who is differently abled, testifies how the skills he gained through the FCAP and the microgrant he received from Spark Microgrants transformed his life.
“Through FCAP and Spark Microgrants’ support, our village chose cattle farming. I was lucky to be among those selected to receive a cow. It calved, and the money from the calf, funded other development projects while continuing to rear cattle,” he said.
“As a person with a disability, FCAP did not exclude me. Instead, it showed me that anyone, no matter their condition, can work and achieve the development they aspire to,” added Rwamanywa.
Aime François Niyonsenga, the Deputy Mayor of Gakenke District in charge of Economic Development, confirmed that the project has transformed citizens’ attitudes and participation in government programs.
“This project has changed many things, especially the mindset. Citizens now actively take part in government initiatives and community projects. For example, when it comes to subscriptions for community-based health insurance [Mutuelle de Santé], they now achieve 100% coverage,” he noted.
Residents commonly use the grants provided by Spark Microgrants to invest in farming, small businesses, tailoring, and digital services including those offered through platforms such as Irembo, among others.
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