As part of the launch of the National Month of Volunteerism, residents and youth in Kibangu Sector, Muhanga District, came together for a special Umuganda (community work) to build seven houses for families whose homes were destroyed by recent disasters. The houses are now at the roofing stage.
Muhanga District Mayor Kayitare Jacqueline said the initiative aligns with the month dedicated to remembering the Unity and Resilience of Rwandans, where young people are encouraged to collaborate with communities to fight isolation and address social and economic challenges.
She emphasized that this month also serves as an opportunity for families to instill the value of hard work in their children.
“This is a time to help our youth abandon the culture of idleness. We urge parents to teach their children to work hard and develop good values, because a love for work is what helps the youth uphold and protect our country’s achievements,” she said.
Kayitare added that the period also encourages the youth to learn Rwanda’s true history and develop critical thinking skills.
“During this month of Unity and Resilience, we also help the youth understand the nation’s past, analyze information objectively, and resist attempts to mislead them,” she added.
Solange Kamanzi, Coordinator of Youth Volunteers in Muhanga District, said the campaign goes beyond construction.
It will include creating kitchen gardens, encouraging school attendance among children, promoting road safety under the “Gerayo Amahoro” campaign, and supporting volunteer-driven community initiatives.
“Our country’s history shows that some youth were misled into destruction during the Genocide against the Tutsi, while others showed courage and helped stop it. Today’s youth have no excuse not to do good, especially with the good leadership and examples we have,” Kamanzi said.
Authorities called on beneficiaries to build on this support by working hard toward self-reliance. Residents expressed gratitude for the volunteers’ dedication and promised to make good use of their new homes once completed.
“We are deeply thankful for the youth’s energy and generosity. Their work proves they are truly the strength of the nation,” said one of the beneficiaries.
