Umuganda


The last Saturday of every month is Umuganda. The name means "coming together in common purpose to achieve an outcome" (*RDB). 
Umuganda begins at 8am and lasts around least three hours. During this time Rwandan citizens ages 18-65 participate in community service. Umuganda has played an important part in both the economic development and community building of post-genocide Rwanda. The neighborhood chief decides on a project and someone from every family is expected to help.  Some of the community service projects include building homes for vulnerable people, construction of schools, road maintenance, tree planting and neighborhood clean-up.

 Francis has enjoyed participating in Umuganda in our neighborhood, which usually involves clearing grass and brush from the side of the road and maintaining sidewalks. Following a couple hours of work, a neighborhood meeting takes place during which various topics pertaining to neighborhood  events, maintenance, and security are discussed. It's a good opportunity to get to know our neighbors and play a part in the upkeep of the city.



*You can learn more about Umuganda from the Rwanda Development Board:  http://www.rgb.rw/fileadmin/Key_documents/HGS/UMUGANDA_2017.pdf

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