Intenko Izirikana’ closes culture’s gaps

Inteko Izirikana is an association of retired elderly people in Rwanda. They come together and educate Rwanda’s youth about the country’s cultural values and norms. Pastor Ezra Mpyisi is one of the founding members of the association. He says they are fighting very hard for a better future of the younger generation. “I am not blaming anyone for not following our culture because they never had it before. Many Rwandans have grown up in different countries and had to behave differently to fit in that society,” Mpyisi said. “Some young people are missing out on culture because they think it’s a waste of time. If the country has no cultural values, where is the country headed?” questions Mpyisi. He calls upon the youth to cooperate with the elders so that Rwanda’s culture is preserved. “We are past the time of trying out different cultures because we want to survive: We are in our motherland,” he asserts. “In our local language, we say, ‘Utaganiriye na Se ntamenya icyo Sekuru yasize avuze’ meaning that, ‘if you don’t spend time talking to your father, you will never know what your grandfather said before his death’.” Mpyisi advises. Inteko Izirikana was founded in 2001 by a group of retired Rwandans from different walks of life. They believe that they can help younger generations to understand and preserve their cultural values for a better society. mbbz_pelagie@yahoo.com