Dominique Habimana, Rwanda’s newly appointed Minister of Local Government, has emphasized the continued relevance of Umuganura, the National Harvest Day, despite its complex historical background. He was addressing residents of Musanze District during the national celebrations held on Friday, August 1. Celebrated annually since its reinstatement in 2011, Umuganura carries the theme this year: Isoko y’ubumwe n’ishingiro ryo kwigira, which loosely translates to A source of unity and foundation for self-reliance. ALSO READ: School feeding takes center stage in Umuganura celebrations “We celebrate Umuganura today so that we may celebrate even more in the future,” said Habimana. “To observe it is to reaffirm our shared roots and to acknowledge the key values our history has identified us with: patriotism, hard work, sacrifice, courage, unity, nobility, collaboration, and kindness.” Addressing questions about the ancient practice’s relevance today, the minister explained that today’s Umuganura celebrates more than just the agricultural harvest. “We now honor harvests from all sectors; services, technology, education, tourism, arts, industry, and more,” he said. “While the focus in the past was solely on agriculture, the core values of Umuganura remain unchanged.” Habimana also announced that the government is pursuing recognition of Umuganura as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, noting that it is the only traditional Rwandan holiday still celebrated nationally. ALSO READ: How Umuganura is transcendental and unifying in Rwandan society The colorful event in Musanze included the gifting of cows to five disadvantaged families through the Girinka programme. Various organizations and businesses, mostly in the agricultural sector, also showcased their products. Among them was Rwanda Polytechnic (RP), which exhibited innovative products such as green banana biscuits, egg powder, and sweet potato pasta. Joseph Diocles Mazimpaka, an instructor at the RP Musanze campus, highlighted Umuganura as an opportunity to demonstrate advances in agricultural technology. “This is where we help farmers to understand better techniques for preserving their produce, encouraging greater engagement in agriculture,” he noted. Also present was Donatha Mukandayisenga, president of the Abajyana n’igihe farming cooperative. “We’re here to showcase our achievements,” she said. “We grow fruits, vegetables, and maize, and also process maize into flour. Umuganura gives us a chance to connect with others, celebrate our progress, and exchange ideas.”
