CRS Work in Rwanda
As Rwanda works towards reducing poverty, strengthening civil society and reconciling its past, CRS engages in development activities in Agriculture , Microfinance and Peacebuilding. CRS also provides food assistance to the most vulnerable such as orphans, the disabled, elderly in institutions, and to partner organizations working with children and families affected by HIV and AIDS.
Some specific examples of our work include:
A food distribution to Goma refugees in Gisenyi, Rwanda.
Local Initiatives for Peace
This project supports income-generating projects initiated by associations and communities working towards a peaceful future.
Agricultural Land Restoration
This agricultural component of the Development Activities Program will improve the food security of small farm families in the Butare and Kibuye provinces.
In January 2002, the Nyiragongo volcano erupted in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) destroying much of Goma, which borders Gisenyi in northwestern Rwanda. As the lava engulfed their houses and destroyed public infrastructure, residents of Goma fled to Gisenyi in large numbers. They had no food, water or clothing. CRS/Rwanda sent staff members to immediately start organizing an emergency response. CRS transported and distributed food and necessities to the Goma refugees with the support of staff from Burundi, Rwanda and DRC.
