In Nyarugenge District, participants of 'Urugerero' known as 'Inkomezabigwi' are making a significant impact through various community service activities, including building homes for vulnerable families, renovating schools, and establishing community gardens. Urugerero, Rwanda’s national civic education and community service programme, is in its 12th edition this year. ALSO READ: Kayonza: How Urugerero is transforming lives through volunteerism, civic engagement In Kimisagara Sector, the participants have undertaken several initiatives, with one of the most notable projects at GS Kimisagara. Here, they are constructing a school gate to enhance student safety and working on a school garden to provide fresh food. Charles Nsengimana, the school's director, emphasised the importance of the gate, saying, Before, it was difficult to protect students from accidents as the school is near a busy road. Some students were involved in accidents, and tragically, lives were lost. This new gate will help ensure their safety. Meanwhile, in Rwezamenyo Sector, 'Urugerero' participants have been rebuilding homes for vulnerable residents. Donatira Uyisabye, a resident living with her husband and two children, shared her gratitude after the youth assisted in reconstructing her previously run-down home. My house used to leak every time it rained, and I feared it might collapse on my family. These young volunteers have worked tirelessly alongside the builders, and even though the house is not yet finished, I can already see a huge improvement, she said. For participants, 'Urugerero' is not just about service but also about personal growth. Gaston Ngenambizi, one of the participants, noted their sense of duty. He said, We were taught to fulfill our commitments, and now is the time to act. All it takes is determination. We are the strength of our country, so we must use our hands to build it. Kelly Ishimwe, another participant, reflected on the lessons learned through the programme, saying, Urugerero has brought us together as youth from different backgrounds. We’ve learned patriotism, teamwork, and the value of serving our country. What stood out for me the most is developing a deep love for Rwanda by directly helping those in need. According to Juvenal Nshutiziza, the 'Urugerero' activity coordinator in Nyarugenge District, the programme goes beyond physical service. We emphasise unity, leadership, and social responsibility. Participants come from different schools, but through Urugerero, they become one team. Some are trained to take on leadership roles at the cell level, while others contribute to schools and health centres. It’s an opportunity for them to develop skills and meaningful connections, he explained. Nshutinziza said Urugerero participants dedicate four days a week to community service. On Fridays, they engage in discussions led by the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE) and its partners. “This week, they are learning about the National Electoral Commission, gaining insight into Rwanda’s political system and the role of civic engagement in governance,” he said. This year's 'Urugerero' cohort consists of over 69,000 participants/Inkomezabigwi, all recent high school graduates from the 2023/2024 academic year. The programme began on January 13 and will conclude on February 28.
