In a significant move to fight extreme poverty, the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD) and GiveDirectly have signed a $5 million grant agreement on the sidelines of the ECOSOC Partnership Forum.
This partnership will directly benefit families living below the international poverty line in Rwanda for one year.
The grant will allow GiveDirectly, working alongside the Rwandan government, to provide cash grants of up to $1,100 to 3,979 families in the Nyagisozi sector. This initiative is part of the “Habwa Wigire” program, a joint effort with Rwanda’s Ministry of Local Government. The program aims to reduce poverty quickly and create a model for poverty alleviation that can be applied in Rwanda and around the world.
Fahad Al Sulaiti, Director General of the Qatar Fund for Development, expressed his pride in the partnership. “We are honored to be part of this important initiative,” he said. “Qatar has always supported vulnerable communities, and this agreement reflects our ongoing commitment to helping those in need.”
Nick Allardice, CEO of GiveDirectly, thanked QFFD for its generous support and the Rwandan government for making this initiative possible. He emphasized the power of unconditional cash transfers, which have been shown to empower individuals to make decisions that improve their lives. “This partnership will bring lasting change to the lives of many Rwandans living in extreme poverty,” Allardice said.
Ambassador Ernest Rwamucyo, Rwanda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, highlighted the importance of the collaboration in the country’s fight against poverty. “We are optimistic about the lasting impact this program will have,” he noted, adding that it marks the beginning of stronger bilateral ties between Rwanda and Qatar.
While Rwanda has seen impressive economic growth, with an average GDP increase of 7% over the past decade, challenges remain. Around 38% of the population still lives below the poverty line, and many face food insecurity due to climate-related issues affecting agriculture.
This partnership is seen as a crucial step in Rwanda’s broader development goals, especially the Vision 2050 plan, which focuses on poverty eradication and boosting the agricultural sector, where most Rwandans rely for their livelihood.
Together, QFFD, GiveDirectly, and the Rwandan government are working to create a sustainable future for the country’s most vulnerable citizens.
