The Embassy of Israel in Rwanda donated two ultrasound machines valued at Rwf53.6 million to AVEGA Agahozo, the association of widows of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, on Thursday, January 9.
The donation is part of an ongoing initiative to enhance AVEGA’s ability to provide free diagnostic and consultation services to its members and other vulnerable groups.
Einat Weiss, Israel’s Ambassador to Rwanda, highlighted the embassy’s commitment to empowering women and promoting unity in the country. During a visit to the AVEGA Clinic, Weiss had noted the need for an ultrasound machine to support the organization’s healthcare efforts.
“We believe this donation will contribute to building resilience, strengthen social cohesion, and enhance AVEGA’s efforts to foster unity, peace, and the well-being of Rwandan citizens,” Weiss said.
Alphonsine Mukarugema, a representative of AVEGA, expressed her gratitude for the Israeli Embassy’s ongoing support, which dates back to the Covid-19 pandemic. She also praised the embassy for its assistance during the genocide commemoration period and its support for widows’ cooperatives.
“These new ultrasound machines will help us extend quality care to women who need it the most,” Mukarugema added.
AVEGA operates three health facilities—Ntarama Health Center, Rwamagana Health Center, and the AVEGA Clinic—along with ambulances that serve both survivors of the genocide and the broader community.