My name is Leah Muhimana, I am 43-year-old and I live in Kirimbi Sector in Nyamasheke District. Life hasn’t been easy, but I found hope and strength through Baho Neza Initiative brought to us by FASACO, with the support of Imbuto Foundation.

I made the difficult decision to leave an abusive marriage to protect my children, but it led me into deep depression and uncertainty. My turning point came when I met the Abahumurizamutima (Community Based Counselors) team, who introduced me to mental health safe spaces where I learnt a lot about my rights too. Initially hesitant, I decided to join their programme, and by the end of the 15-week long sessions, I had regained strength and determination.

As a single mother, I began rebuilding my family’s life, starting with saving and investing 25,000 RWF in rice farming. Despite the challenges, I managed to buy the land we once rented, and now, I earn nearly 100,000 RWF with each harvest.

I am profoundly grateful to Baho Neza’s “Twite ku buzima bwo mu mutwe” programme for giving us a new beginning.