The German government through the Facility Investing for Employment (IFE) initiative has funded the creation of a culinary institute, health clinics, move that will create over 1,000 new jobs which will lead to a positive growth and empowerment of the health and nutrition sectors.
The ceremony, held at the German Ambassador’s residence, unveiled a €1.1 million grant for Solid’Africa, a social enterprise renowned for its hospital feeding program.
This funding will birth the Institute for Culinary Arts and Nutrition (ICAN), a vocational training center nurturing chefs and kitchen staff adept at catering to the nutritional needs of both low-income hospital patients and the hospitality industry. Notably, Solid’Africa currently provides 9,000 free meals daily to patients while generating additional income through private catering, with profits fueling their mission.
The second grant, amounting to €1.53 million, landed in the hands of the Society for Family Health (SFH). This investment fuels the construction of health posts in remote areas, bringing vital healthcare services closer to communities.
Additionally, the grant bolsters the capacity of healthcare workers, ensuring they can deliver top-notch care. SFH’s commitment to health equity shines through their previous collaboration with IFE, which resulted in the construction of 80 health posts.
Steffen Kuhl, Managing Director of IFE, applauded both projects for aligning with their “Jobs for a Just Transition” initiative. He particularly lauded Solid’Africa’s innovative model, seamlessly blending social impact with financial sustainability. Highlighting the creation of over 850 jobs through ICAN, he also expressed appreciation for SFH’s dedication to bridging the healthcare gap in remote areas.
Nassir Katuramu, CEO of Solid’Africa, remarked on the project’s timely alignment with their national feeding program expansion partnership with the Rwandan government. Both grantees acknowledged the power of partnerships, with Solid’Africa contributing 28% and SFH covering 25% of their respective project costs.
This initiative exemplifies the German government’s commitment to sustainable development in Rwanda. By investing in job creation and capacity building within critical sectors like health and nutrition, IFE’s grants contribute to improved healthcare access, economic empowerment, and overall well-being for Rwandan communities.