The Local Administrative Entities Development Agency (LODA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC) and other stakeholders, has completed a round of training to the attention of Para-Social Workers. The training aimed at enhancing their skills so they can better perform their duties.

Each village in the country is endowed with a Para-Social Worker responsible for monitoring households under the National Strategy for Sustainable Graduation, which helps families lift themselves out of poverty in a sustainable manner. Their primary responsibilities include visiting households, forming discussion groups, understanding their needs and challenges and updating information about their socio-economic status. They also assist in registering vulnerable families for social protection programs.

The training lasted for 10 weeks, and the latest cohort was concluded on last Saturday, comprised of trainees from the districts of Kamonyi, Gatsibo and Rulindo.

On this occasion, the Director General of LODA, Nyinawagaga Claudine, stated that Para-Social Workers previously lacked certain knowledge needed to advocate for and advise the people they serve. "This role exists in every village in Rwanda. Its purpose is to advise citizens on their journey out of poverty, support them, advocate for them and guide them in using available opportunities, including the Vision Umurenge Program (VUP) and other partner-funded initiatives", she said.

Nyinawagaga also mentioned that there are many projects aimed at helping people escape poverty. These workers ensure that no one is left behind and encourage beneficiaries to make use of the support they receive. She further clarified that the responsibilities of Para-Social Workers are different from those of Community Health Workers, though both contribute to the well-being of citizens.

Some trainees expressed that the training was beneficial in helping them better understand their responsibilities.

Nirere Julienne, a Para-Social Worker from Kigarama Village, Sheri Cell, Rugarika Sector, Kamonyi District, stated:
"I used to think I was just a local leader assisting in village meetings and community work. But after this training, I now understand my specific responsibilities, how to engage with community members, and how to inform them about government programs that support vulnerable families in accessing financial aid for development".

Ngendahayo Callixte, a Para-Social Worker from Nyamitanga Village, Muganza Cell, Karama Sector, Kamonyi District added: "We were trained to visit every household, establish support groups, advocate for the community and properly document our activities in reports."

A total of 14,837 Para-Social Workers, one for each village were expected to be trained. Those who missed the training for various reasons will be given another opportunity. Additionally, Social Development Officers (SEDOs) from all Cells and Social Affairs Officers from all Sectors also participated to this training.