Empowering Youth Through Skills

The Transformative Impact of the Zakat Foundation of America and Abdallah Kiromba Foundation

Today marks a day of immense joy as we celebrate the remarkable contributions of the Zakat Foundation of America and the Abdallah Kiromba Foundation in empowering our youth, especially teenage mothers and school dropouts, with essential skills for a better future. This initiative has played a critical role in providing technical skills such as tailoring, which are invaluable in paving the way for a sustainable livelihood. 

Over time, the impact has extended beyond the intended beneficiaries, as even their brothers have joined in the training, thereby spreading the positive effects throughout our entire community.

Beyond skills training, both foundations have played an instrumental role in other vital sectors, such as orphan care, livestock management, mosque construction, and Islamic seasonal programs like Iftar and Eid Gifts. The presence of these two foundations in our lives has been a beacon of hope, not only in empowering individuals but also in fostering a sense of community solidarity.

As Rugaravu, the Executive Secretary of Kabarore Sector, shared:

“We take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude to the Zakat Foundation of America and Abdallah Kiromba Foundation for their unwavering commitment to providing our youth with the skills they need to build a sustainable future. Many of these young people, who faced significant challenges—including becoming mothers at an early age—now have a chance to create better lives for themselves and their families. Thanks to the foundations’ generosity, our children have been equipped with professional skills that will empower them to earn a living. Furthermore, the initiative has encouraged collaboration and mutual support by grouping them together, fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility.”

Special thanks are due to Professor Katherine Klein of the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, who has played a vital role in supporting this initiative. Professor Klein donated 15 sewing machines to the Abdallah Kiromba Foundation as startup capital for these young people, enabling them to begin earning money immediately. Additionally, she generously provided health insurance (“mutuelle de santé”) for the students and their families, covering 953 individuals last year and over 600 this year—an extraordinary contribution to the well-being of the community.

As we reflect on these achievements, we are reminded of our country’s ongoing emphasis on the importance of acquiring practical skills for economic independence. As leaders, we pledge to continue supporting these young people in their workplaces. Through mentorship and guidance, we will ensure that they are not only able to sustain themselves but thrive in the years to come.

Gikundiro Aline, a proud graduate of the Abdallah Kiromba Foundation, expressed the heartfelt gratitude of all the students:

“On behalf of all the students, I would like to express our deepest appreciation to the Foundation for equipping us with invaluable skills and also for thinking ahead about our post-training journey. Many of us were uncertain about what we would do after completing the training, but through the initiative of forming groups and providing startup sewing machines, we now have the tools to create meaningful livelihoods for ourselves.

The support and knowledge we’ve received have given us hope for the future. We promise to make the most of this opportunity and use it wisely. Thank you to all who have believed in us and empowered us to change our  lives!”

Muzatsinda Geoffrey, a proud parent of Nkotanyi Emmanuel, a student who benefited from the program, shared:

“On behalf of all parents, and in my own name, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our Government of National Unity for always prioritizing the well-being of our children. Many young people face significant challenges, with some falling into harmful behaviors such as drug abuse. However, through the efforts of organizations like the Abdallah Kiromba Foundation, the government has created transformative opportunities that change lives.

In just six months, my son has achieved what I thought would take years. When he showed me the products he had made, I was filled with pride. This program has not only equipped him with professional skills but has also given him the confidence to face the future with optimism.

To our sponsors, we extend our deepest thanks. You have provided our children with the tools to enter the labor market, and it is now our responsibility as parents to support them. We will be their first clients, buying their goods and clothing. I am proud to wear a “Made-in-Rwanda” outfit today, crafted by these talented young people.

Finally, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our government and all the sponsors for their vision and commitment. May Allah bless you abundantly for the profound impact you’ve had on the lives of our children.”

This collaborative effort is not just about training; it’s about transforming lives, building communities, and ensuring that our youth are equipped with the tools they need for a brighter future. The Zakat Foundation of America and the Abdallah Kiromba Foundation are more than just supporters—they are partners in change, helping to create a legacy of self-sufficiency, hope, and empowerment for generations to come.