Musanze: Inkomezabigwi Cohort 13 Concludes, Graduates Emerge with Renewed Patriotism and Strong Civic Values

At the Itorero training grounds in Busogo Sector, a powerful spirit of patriotism and civic responsibility filled the air as Intore from Busogo and Gataraga Sectors gathered to conclude the 13th cohort of Urugerero rw’Inkomezabigwi, which officially began on January 13, 2026. The ceremony marked not only the end of a structured civic training program, but also the birth of a renewed commitment among young Rwandans determined to serve their country with integrity, courage, and unwavering dedication.

Mayor of Musanze District, Nsengimana Claudien, who also serves as the Chief Trainer of Inyangakugoma Intore in Musanze, addressing the graduates and commended them for their discipline, resilience, and the impactful community activities they carried out throughout the training period.

“You have demonstrated that patriotism is not a slogan, but a responsibility,” he said. “The strength of a nation lies in citizens who are ready to sacrifice for the common good. Continue to be part of the solutions to the challenges that still affect the well-being of our people.”

Urugerero is more than a traditional civic engagement program. It is a transformative journey designed to nurture values of selflessness, national unity, problem-solving, and ethical leadership. Over the weeks of training, Intore participated in civic education sessions, discussions on Rwanda’s history and governance, community service activities, and dialogues centered on unity and resilience. The program instills a deep understanding of what it means to be Rwandan in both identity and action.

As the ceremony unfolded, three Intore shared moving testimonies about how the experience reshaped their mindset and strengthened their sense of duty to their country.

Benoit TUYUBAHE, from Gataraga Sector spoke with visible pride:

“Before Urugerero, I understood loving my country in words. Today, I understand it in action. I have learned that true patriotism means stepping forward when something needs to be done, even if no one is watching. I am leaving here committed to serving my community with discipline and integrity.”

His words reflected the essence of Itorero cultivating citizens who take initiative and prioritize collective progress over individual comfort.

Clarisse UWIDUHAYE from Busogo Sector, emphasized the impact of civic education on her personal growth:

“The lessons on unity and resilience changed how I see my role as a young Rwandan. I now understand that nation-building starts with small daily actions respecting others, promoting harmony, and standing firm for what is right. Urugerero has given me the courage to be a role model in my community.”

Her testimony highlighted the program’s emphasis on uburere mboneragihugu civic education that shapes character, responsibility, and ethical conduct.

Another graduate Niyonzima Eric, focused on the value of self-sacrifice and teamwork:

“Through community service activities, I learned that serving others brings fulfillment beyond personal success. Working together with fellow Intore to solve real community problems taught me that our generation has the power to transform Rwanda if we remain united and committed.”

Throughout the training, the Intore engaged in practical activities aimed at addressing local challenges and strengthening social cohesion. They took part in community outreach initiatives, discussions on national values, and collaborative problem-solving exercises designed to equip them with both knowledge and action-oriented skills.

Mayor Nsengimana Claudien applauded their active participation in the various sessions and urged them not to let the spirit of Urugerero fade with the ceremony. He called upon them to continue promoting unity, resilience, and responsible citizenship in their respective communities.

“You are now ambassadors of positive change,” he reminded them. “Let the discipline, unity, and courage you have demonstrated here guide you in every decision you make.”

The ceremony concluded in an atmosphere of pride and renewed determination. Songs, cultural performances, and symbolic gestures underscored the continuity of Rwanda’s long-standing tradition of Itorero a tradition that bridges generations and ensures that national values remain deeply rooted in the hearts of its youth.

As the 13th cohort of Inkomezabigwi returns to their communities in Busogo and Gataraga, they carry with them more than certificates of completion. They carry a strengthened identity, a sharpened sense of responsibility, and a shared pledge to contribute to Rwanda’s development.