TODAY, as a mark of solidarity with Rwandans as they commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi, many around the world will join the Global Umuganda drive. Many from diverse backgrounds and cultures from the four corners of the world will be at the rendezvous where they will seek to improve their communities. The monthly community work, that has been the hallmark of Rwanda’s own home-grown solutions, has transformed many lives. It has been one of the most effective social engineering tools in bringing people closer in pursuit of a common goal. As the organisers of the drive have pointed out, it does not matter what one does in their communities during Umuganda, it is about coming together to improve the world around you. This weekend’s operation will also be a resounding message about the power of unity and coming together for a common purpose. The absence of unity is what tore this country apart 20 years ago, but the promotion of unity helped stitch it together again. Global Umuganda should not be a one-time event, but should be a permanent fixture on many countries’ calendars. Umuganda has helped heal Rwanda, and the same prescription can help other parts of the world that are being torn apart.
