Project part of ‘Clean Water Initiative’

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Gatenga Vocational Training Center, located in Gatenga, in the Kicukiro District of Kigali, Rwanda, has improved sanitation for students thanks to donor funding. The funding came from the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative.” Salesian Missions is the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

The new facilities provide running water and adherence to proper cleaning standards. They feature separate sections for girls and boys, ensuring privacy and preventing students from feeling uncomfortable or disturbed in their personal space. The facilities are also now closer to the students. More than 560 students were impacted by this donation.

A Salesian explained, “The previous inadequate infrastructure affected hygiene, health, privacy and overall dignity. The improved sanitation has helped to reduce health issues and helped students fight against the infections that previously caused many problems.”

The students are happy with the new facilities. Gikundiro Christa Bella expressed gratitude for Salesian Missions and its support of the center. She said, “The previous facilities were unhealthy, caused infections and produced a strong bad smell. The new facilities are more modern and ensure privacy and dignity, especially for the female students.”

“The toilets are now close to the students and meet all necessary standards,” said Uzamureba Clementine, a staff member at the school. She emphasized that the improved sanitation has helped reduce health issues and created a safer space for everyone.

Don Bosco Gatenga has been at the forefront of gender issues in the region. Since its beginning in 1976, the school has welcomed youth in need. The school helps to prepare youth for the future and teaches them employable skills so that they will be self-sufficient and help support their families and the community.

Salesian missionaries provide a range of educational and social development services in Rwanda. Youth who are poor are able to access programs including health services, nutrition, education and general support services that help them to lead healthy productive lives. Salesians first arrived in the country in 1953. Today, there are six Salesian centers in Rwanda.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Rwanda

UNICEF – Rwanda