Thousands of households in the districts of Nyarugenge, Gatsibo, Kamonyi, Musanze, and Rubavu on Friday received food donations during Eid al-Adha, thanks to a large-scale distribution program led by the Abdullah Kiromba Foundation (AKF) in partnership with the Zakat Foundation of America.
The program, which coincided with the first day of the Islamic festival, aimed to reach thousands of families across Rwanda, with over 10,000 people to share through this initiative.
Speaking during the event in Nyarugenge District, Donath Niyonsaba, the President and Legal Secretary of the Abdullah Kiromba Foundation, confirmed that cattle were sacrificed as part of the annual Eid celebration.
“Today, we have sacrificed 26 animals in five selected districts, reaching around 1,125 households,” Niyonsaba said. “This program is designed to support the Muslim community, especially at a time when the cost of living in Rwanda is so high. Many families can’t afford to buy meat even once a day. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help.”
In Gatsibo District, the distribution took place in neighborhoods including Gatoki, Simbwa, and Kabarore Mosque. Each family also received basic cooking essentials along with the meat. Distribution took place after prayers.
One of the beneficiaries, Sayidi Mugiraneza, a Muslim from Kabarore Sector in Gatsibo District, expressed his gratitude: “Eid is a day we remember Prophet Ibrahim’s faith and obedience to Allah. That’s why I honor this day with deep respect. We received meat today thanks to the Foundation. It means a lot to us—especially in times like these when buying meat is a luxury for many families. I will also share it with my neighbors so that we can enjoy Eid together. May Allah bless those who made this possible.”
Zuriyati Niyonsaba, a beneficiary from Karenge, Mutarama Cell in Kabarore Sector, Gatsibo District, said:“Eid al-Adha is a very important day for Muslims. It’s a day we deeply respect. Even the children at home now recognize it as a day of sacrifice—a time to come together and share with others, especially our neighbors. We prepare meals and make sure no one is left out.”
“We don’t only come together during Eid. As Muslims in Kabarore Sector, we visit the sick twice a week and also organize monthly meal distributions in local hospitals. We’re truly grateful to the Abdullah Kiromba Foundation—not just for the Eid gifts, but also for supporting our community throughout with school fees, health insurance, and other vital programs for vulnerable families.” She added.
Niyonsaba further emphasized that the Abdullah Kiromba Foundation’s programs are inclusive and not limited to Muslims alone.
“We do not discriminate based on faith, religion, or political beliefs. Our Foundation is open to all, united by a shared commitment to dignity, respect, and positive change,” he noted.
The Abdullah Kiromba Foundation is a non-profit organization focused on supporting and empowering communities in Rwanda and the region, particularly through initiatives in healthcare, education, and social welfare.
Its partner in this initiative, the Zakat Foundation of America, is a Chicago-based NGO providing emergency relief, post-disaster rehabilitation, sustainable development, education, healthcare, orphan sponsorship, and seasonal programs such as Ramadan iftars and Udhiya/Qurbani.
