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Today, the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) Engineer Contingent in Jamaica with the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Engineers, conducted, Umuganda at Blessed Assurance Institution. This institution is a home for children with disabilities under Mustered Seed Communities. The initiative forms part of the ongoing Hurricane Melissa recovery efforts aimed at supporting vulnerable communities and restoring essential facilities.

The activity was conducted together with University Hospital of the West Indies Tony Thwaites Wing to improve living and learning conditions of the children at the Blessed Assurance. The works conducted involved painting the study hall and installing electric ceiling fans in the dormitories.

This activity mirrors a spirit of cooperation between the RDF and JDF, as well as the shared commitment to community resilience and humanitarian support.

This support gave a better face-lift to the institution and contributed meaningfully to the well-being of the children and staff at the facility.

Speaking during the activity, Col Moses Kayigamba, RDF Engineer Contingent Commander, commended all participants for their dedication and teamwork. He briefly explained to the audience the background of Umuganda that was adopted as one of Rwanda's homegrown solutions to foster unity, solidarity and collective responsibility. He noted that it is carried out on a mandatory basis every last Saturday of the month. He noted that bringing this spirit of service to Jamaica further strengthens the bond and shared experiences that benefit communities they serve.

Mr. Dalmas Agan, Manager of the Blessed Assurance Children’s Home, also expressed his sincere appreciation to the RDF and JDF Engineers for their outstanding support. He commended the teams for their generosity and hard work, noting that the children will now live and study in improved conditions as a result of this heartfelt initiative. He described the activity as a true demonstration of compassion and solidarity, which has made a meaningful difference in the lives of the children under their care.