By Oliva tuyishimire/Rwanda,
Umuganura was celebrated in Musanze District as a Rwandan cultural tradition that promotes the value of hard work, sharing the fruits of one’s efforts, appreciating achievements, and reflecting on the country’s development journey.
The celebrations were held in Musanze Sector, Musanze District, bringing together residents who said the occasion provides an important opportunity to preserve and promote Rwandan culture, particularly the values of sharing, working together, and celebrating the results of collective efforts.
The Mayor of Musanze District, Nsengimana Claudien, said Umuganura is not simply a day for celebration, but also an opportunity to appreciate what has been achieved, share the fruits of people’s work, and strengthen cooperation in the country’s development journey.
He said:
«“Today, we are gathered to celebrate Umuganura, a Rwandan cultural tradition that highlights the value of hard work, sharing the fruits of our efforts, and recognizing the contribution of those who have played a role in what we have achieved. In Rwandan culture, Umuganura was not only about sharing the harvest; it was also an opportunity to give thanks, bring people together, strengthen cooperation, and share a common vision for development. This tradition remains highly relevant today, as we continue to call for unity, self-reliance, and working together towards our goals.”»
He further emphasized that these achievements would be difficult to realize in a society affected by drug and substance abuse, which harms people’s health, undermines productivity and development, and can contribute to the breakdown of families and communities.
The Mayor explained that Umuganura should also serve as an opportunity to assess the achievements made, recognize everyone’s contribution to development, and continue working together to achieve development goals.
This year’s Umuganura was celebrated under the theme: “Umuganura, a Source of Unity and the Foundation of Self-Reliance.”
Residents who took part in the celebrations said they were proud to mark the occasion and happy to share the fruits of their work.
Kamariza Dorothea, one of the participants, said the celebration offers important lessons, particularly for young people.
«“As young people, there are many things we can learn from today. We should avoid engaging in drug and substance abuse and work hard to build a better future for ourselves. We should also preserve Rwandan culture. We have seen traditional items and foods that some of us did not know about, such as traditional pots, sorghum porridge and wheat porridge. I had never seen some of these before, but I have learned about them today.”»
Another resident, Rupari Gerard, said he was pleased to see residents gathered together to celebrate their achievements.
«“What I am happy about is that we gathered in one place as residents, united and celebrating the achievements we have made this year. We have also learned that we should fight against locally produced illicit alcoholic drinks and instead consume beverages that meet quality and safety standards.”»
As part of the celebrations and in recognition of residents’ contribution to promoting culture and improving community well-being, two residents who had demonstrated outstanding efforts in promoting Rwandan culture were awarded prizes.
Four families were also given seedlings to support agricultural activities and increase production, while another four families received cows as part of efforts to improve their livelihoods.
These activities demonstrated that Umuganura is not only a day for sharing and celebrating, but also an opportunity to appreciate hard work, strengthen cooperation, promote mutual support, and support initiatives aimed at improving the well-being of citizens.
Residents were urged to continue upholding the values associated with Umuganura, including hard work, sharing the fruits of their efforts, mutual support, and working together, so that Rwandan culture can continue contributing to the country’s development.
