As part of its commitment to empower vulnerable young girls, SaCoDé launched the "Menya Umwuga" project, offering professional training in sewing.
This program targets girls and young women facing difficult circumstances, often orphans or from disadvantaged backgrounds, equipping them with technical skills to enter the job market.
The "Menya Umwuga" project goes beyond training. Once the girls complete their training, they are integrated into SaCoDé’s production centers, where they work as seamstresses contributing to the production of Agateka reusable sanitary pads, uniforms, and other essential items. This professional integration not only creates jobs but also provides a stable source of income, bolstering the dignity of these young trainees.
In the third quarter of 2024, SaCoDé recruited 11 new seamstresses for its production centers in Muyinga and Ruyigi. These new recruits, all from vulnerable backgrounds, completed training before joining the production teams. Thanks to this program, they now possess the skills needed for financial independence and improved living conditions. The "Menya Umwuga" project continues to exemplify SaCoDé's commitment to offering vulnerable young girls a pathway to a brighter future through hands-on training and sustainable professional integration.
This program is life-changing and contributes to the socio-economic development of local communities.
Testimonial:
Claudine Habonimana, one of the project’s beneficiaries, is a concrete example of the impact of this initiative. An orphan, Claudine has faced numerous challenges, including early pregnancy and the absence of her child’s father. Living with a physical disability, she found herself raising her two-year-old son alone. Her life took a new direction when she was recruited by SaCoDé in January 2024 to undertake sewing training at the Gitega production center.
Despite never having used a sewing machine before, Claudine persevered throughout the three-month training. Thanks to her dedication, she is now one of the skilled seamstresses at the center, able to produce Agateka reusable sanitary pads, uniforms, backpacks, and much more.
"My name is Claudine Habonimana. I am an orphan and live with a physical disability in my left leg. After my parents passed away, my aunt took care of me and supported my schooling until the 7th grade. Sadly, she also passed away, and I moved in with my cousin, who supported me through 11th grade. During that time, I became pregnant. The child’s father initially recognized him and registered him with the local council, but shortly afterward, he disappeared, and I never heard from him again. Since then, I’ve fought alone to feed and raise my child, who is now two years old.
My life took a new turn when I was hired by SaCoDé. I began on January 2, 2024, with three months of sewing training at SaCoDé’s production center in Gitega. At first, I didn’t even know how to use a sewing machine, but thanks to the training and my commitment, I learned quickly. Today, I’m one of the center’s skilled seamstresses, making uniforms, Agateka sanitary pads, and other textile products.
This work has not only enabled me to provide for my child’s needs, but it has also restored my confidence in myself and my future. I am deeply grateful to SaCoDé for this opportunity, which has allowed me to transform my life."
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