The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, has urged Rwandans to use Umuganura as a moment to reflect on the country they are building and the legacy they will leave for future generations.
Nduhungirehe made the call on Friday, July 7, during Umuganura celebrations in the City of Kigali, where he joined Mayor Samuel Dusengiyumva in serving milk to children as part of activities marking the National Harvest Day.
He said Umuganura should not be viewed simply as a one-day celebration of the harvest, but as an opportunity to assess what has been achieved, identify what needs to improve and ensure that the progress made is passed on to the next generation.
“The question we should therefore ask ourselves is: what kind of Rwanda are we preparing to leave to our children? What kind of Rwanda are we preparing to leave to the young generation?” he said.
Umuganura built on sharing
Umuganura, derived from the Kinyarwanda verb kuganura, meaning to share the first harvest, traditionally brought Rwandans together to give thanks for what they had produced and share it with others.
Nduhungirehe noted that in ancient Rwanda the tradition was not limited to those who enjoyed a good harvest. Families and neighbours shared with one another, while people who had experienced poor harvests because of disease, disasters or other challenges were also included.
“This reflected the values of solidarity and mutual support,” he said.
The minister said the tradition also provided an opportunity to reflect on achievements and shortcomings and determine what needed to be improved to achieve better results in the following year.
Protecting the next generation
Nduhungirehe linked this responsibility to the ongoing crackdown on illicit and substandard alcohol, which he said threatens the wellbeing and productivity of Rwandans.
Nduhungirehe said young people should also be provided with productive activities, including sports and cultural programmes, particularly during weekends and school holidays.
He said the traditional sharing of drinks during Umuganura should not be confused with excessive alcohol consumption.
“It was a symbol of fellowship among Rwandans, not an invitation to consume alcohol excessively, become drunk and lose the ability to contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.
He urged Rwandans to ensure that the progress celebrated during Umuganura continues to grow, leaving future generations with a stronger country.
“We must prepare a better Rwanda so that the progress we are celebrating during this year’s Umuganura will increase rather than decline next year,” he said.
