On a sunny afternoon on August 4, Thomas Barayavuga, a resident of Gihango sector, Rutsiro district, was filled with joy as he received a modern cow during the celebration of Umuganura, the National Harvest Day, at a national level. Barayavuga, who had been affected by flood disasters on May 3, causing him to lose his cows among other things, expressed his gratitude for the new cow, which will provide manure for the upcoming farming season and a source of milk for his child. This gesture meant a significant change in his life, offering hope for a better future. ALSO READ: Floods: Number of deaths, injuries, destroyed houses slightly increase Another beneficiary, Odette Nyiranzakizwanimana, also expressed her appreciation for the cow, saying that it would help her build resilience after the initial support she had received. The event was presided over by the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, Ildephonse Musafiri, who handed out cows and seeds as part of the Kuganuza tradition. The aim was to bestow well-wishes for a prosperous farming season and abundant harvest, especially to those who faced the brunt of flood disasters. Musafiri emphasized that celebrating Umuganura on a national level in Ruhango sector, Rutsiro district, was a way to comfort and support the sectors affected by the disasters. He announced that this was just the beginning, and more residents would receive support in the future. ALSO READ: Umuganura and the values behind it The celebration also recognized exceptional families who executed their imihigo (performance contracts) well, awarding 13 families with bicycles and cups out of over 90,000 families in Rutsiro district. Additionally, the best-performing sectors and cells were also honored. The Governor of Western Province, Francois Habitegeko, expressed his joy in hosting the Umuganura celebration, especially after the disasters that had struck the five western provinces earlier in the year, claiming 100 lives and causing significant damage. He saw Umuganura as a reminder for people to share both their harvests and times of disaster, promoting resilience and unity among Rwandans. Habitegeko stressed the importance of hard work and learning from past experiences to ensure a brighter future. ALSO READ: Why celebrating Umuganura matters more than ever The celebration was not just about giving, but also sharing. Attendees shared maize and various food items as part of the festivities. Moreover, as part of the one egg per child campaign by UNICEF, children received eggs to combat malnutrition and stunting, with a live theatre performance illustrating the importance of eggs in a child's diet. Umuganura plays a crucial role in fostering unity and support among Rwandans, allowing them to celebrate together, overcome difficulties, and strive for better harvests in the coming years.
