On August 8th-9th, 2024, the Dusego Empowerment Hub team embarked on an inspiring two-day study trip from Dusego to Kigali. The goal was not just to build an Empowerment Hub, but to also strengthen our professional team as we push forward in our mission to empower youth, promote literacy, and foster sustainable development in rural Rwanda.
Day 1: A Fusion of Learning and Art
Our first stop was the Kigali Public Library, where we were welcomed by Uwamahoro, the program manager. We explored the library’s sections, from the vibrant children’s area to tranquil adult spaces. The introduction to the Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC) system was eye-opening, making the vast collection feel more accessible. A highlight of the day was visiting the Holiday Camp for children, where we reconnected with our old friend, Pacifique Mahirwe. The camp, with its theme “Inventors Playground,” filled us with hope for Rwanda’s bright future.
In the afternoon, we headed to Museum Ingabo, where founder King Ngabo shared his powerful story of resilience and artistic passion. His journey, from childhood challenges to creating Rwanda’s first private African storytelling museum, left a lasting impression. The day ended with a reflective spoken word session, accompanied by the soulful sounds of the Inanga, Rwanda’s traditional guitar.
Day 2: A Visit to Nyamirambo’s Cultural Heartbeat
The second day brought us to Nyamirambo, Kigali’s hub of creativity and culture. Our visit to the Rafiki Club, a cornerstone of the community for 50 years, was incredibly inspiring. The team at Rafiki shared invaluable insights into youth empowerment and cultural training—wisdom we hope to bring back to Dusego.
We also explored the MAKERSPACE program, where young minds were engaging in technological innovations like 3D printing and renewable energy. Witnessing these projects sparked ideas for implementing similar initiatives at Dusego.
As our journey concluded, we were reminded that growth comes from seeking new experiences and learning from those around us. The trip not only strengthened our team but also filled us with renewed passion to empower the next generation in rural Rwanda.
This journey was just the beginning—now we return to Dusego, ready to apply the lessons we learned and continue building a brighter future.
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