For some people, a common indication that ‘the weekend has arrived’ is that "let’s grab a drink”, or "what’s the plot” message from a friend. Nowadays, many weekend activities involve drinking alcohol, which can be risky on many fronts - physically, mentally, and financially.

Many claims have been made about Rwandans' socialising habits always involving alcohol consumption. However, there is a growing desire to question and challenge this societal norm.

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For instance, Peace and Love Proclaimers, PLP, a youth-led organisation dedicated to advocating for positive change through unity, peace, and development, recently organised a vibrant event "Kickin’ it Sober”, which gathered young people, aged 15 and up, to participate in fun activities such as basketball and football games, bicycle rides, table tennis showdowns, and others, all with the goal of inspiring youth to have fun without the need to drink alcohol.

Following the event, Abdallah Utumatwishima, Minister of Youth, showed appreciation by tweeting, "Next time: Please invite us. I completely agree with you. It is possible to have fun in Tunyweless mood.”

In the same spirit, below, The New Times has compiled a list of activities that people of all ages can enjoy, sober.

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Party games or movie nights

Party games are a great way to have fun with friends and family while dodging the booze. Card games are one example, and not simply the ones played with the standard deck of 52 cards. Games like Truth or Dare, Stir the Pot, Trick-taking, Off-topic, Bad Choices which combine all the best parts of UNO and Never Have I Ever, puzzles, and many others, are now pretty common. For this, you can go to Ikawa Cafe, Lavana, or host one at your own place.

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Sports

Go to a playground and rediscover your favourite childhood pastimes like swinging, hanging on bars, football, basketball, etc. You could also go ride a bicycle, make good use of Nyandungu Eco-Tourism Park’s cycling paths, etc.

Bowling, swimming, and other mini-competitions

Without the interference of alcohol, you might discover that you are a superb bowler or that swimming is actually your talent. It has been established that friendly competitions are great ways for friends to bond. Bowling alleys can be found at Mamba Club. As you have fun, you can order something soft like soda water with lime or a Sprite, Fanta with lemon if you're not quite ready to be spotted with cocktail juice.

Dance lessons, fitness classes

Experience a lively evening of Salsa, Kizomba, and other Latin dances at The Grooves or El Cheza, two popular dance venues in Kigali. Both places are open seven days a week. If dancing is not your cup of tea, you can still stay active by participating in a fitness or yoga class. It's a great opportunity to get in shape and have fun at the same time.

Paint and sip on a non-alcoholic beverage

The trend of creating art while enjoying your preferred drink has become popular in Kigali. Even if you don't drink, you can still participate. Additionally, you can explore new skills involving working with fibre, like knitting, crocheting, or embroidery, all of which have been proven to lower stress levels for those who engage in them. Most of these are available at many art galleries and coffee shops in Kigali such as Kaso Outdoor in Kiyovu.

Silent disco, open mics, or brunch

Break the myth: Music is still as cool with snacks and soft drinks and you don't need alcohol to have a blast. Check the schedules at Silent Home, Chez Felix, and Cadillac Night Club for your silent disco night fun.

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You can also look for jazz cafés and open mic nights, mostly in Kimihurura and Kiyovu neighbourhoods, or community bands playing while you brunch with friends. The Radisson Blu, the Kigali Serena Hotel, and the Hotel des Milles Collines are just a few of the many restaurants that offer brunch packages.

Activities abound, from learning a new language or musical instrument to trying out a new baking or cooking recipe on your own or with friends. Or perhaps, try sleeping early; nothing beats a good night's sleep and a fresh morning with no hangover.