The machines were handed over to beneficiaries recently after completing one-year training at Muhisimbi Voice of Conservation, an organization committed to take care of teen mothers and their children so that they can overcome the stigma associated with teen motherhood.
Some of beneficiaries have welcomed the donation considering it a backup serving as a big foundation for their progress.
“I gave birth when I was aged 16. Days later, the foster old woman died. Since then, I led bitter life in loneliness that I had negative mindsets and considered my existence useless. The donation is for us equivalent to a hoe and land that will pave the way for improved livelihoods of teen mothers and their children,” Jaqueline Mukeshimana said.
Another beneficiary identified as Immaculée Dusabimana has said that received machines are promising to transform their livelihoods and position them as entrepreneurs, other than pejorative nicknames they used to receive.
“We were acquainted with sewing techniques that we are able to offer better services. We have the necessary skills to be exhibited at the labour market to prove our competencies. This will improve our reputation to be perceived as entrepreneurs in the society unlike pejorative nicknames we used to bear as sex workers,” she noted.
The Head of Muhisimbi Voice of Conservation, Emmanuel Harelimana has said that the support is meant to help them mix easily with the community and overcome grief and poverty associated with teen motherhood.
“These teenagers experience hard life that caught our attention to intervene. We helped them acquire sewing skills and provided them with sewing machines. They will be able to engage in a lucrative business to practice what they learnt while generating income,” he said.
Musanze district vice mayor for social affairs, Axelle Kamanzi has thanked partners who continue to walk with the district to uplift living standards of teen mothers.
“We advise teen mothers not to sink into sorrow but remain strong and strive for a prosperous future. They still have chance to resume studies to change own and children’s lives while others finding it difficult can attend vocational training programs. It is also our pledge to stay closer to them along the development journey to transform their livelihoods,” he said.
A total of 104 impregnated teens below the age of 18 were registered in Musanze district between July 2021 and January 2022.
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