Gakenke: Community Work to Strengthen Unity and Boost Infrastructure

Gakenke district communities turned out in large numbers for the end-of-April 2026 Umuganda, embracing a shared responsibility to protect their environment and strengthen the foundations of their progress.

At the district level, the main activities were carried out in Gakenke Sector, where participants concentrated on rehabilitating and maintaining the Nyabutaka–Gahondo–Kaniga road. Citizens worked side by side with district authorities, demonstrating that lasting progress is most powerful when driven by the people themselves.

The activity particiated by different leaders including the Mayor of Gakenke District, Mukandayisenga Vestine, representatives of security organs, youth volunteers, and the general population.

In a parallel activity, the Vice mayor in charge of Social Affairs, Uwamahoro Therese, joined residents of Umujyi Village in Rusagara Cell, also within Gakenke Sector. Together, they carried out a thorough cleaning exercise and prepared the site designated for the future Gakenke bus park. This initiative signals a forward-looking vision for organized urban services and improved public facilities.

Following the physical work, citizens gathered for a community dialogue where key government programs and national priorities were discussed. Emphasis was placed on maintaining security at the household level, fostering self-reliance by shifting mindsets away from dependency on aid, and addressing pressing social issues. Residents were cautioned against engaging in the production, consumption, or trade of substandard alcoholic beverages, as well as the dangers of domestic conflicts that threaten family stability.

Mayor Mukandayisenga Vestine expressed appreciation to all participants for their dedication and active involvement. She encouraged residents to take full ownership of public infrastructure and ensure its sustainability through regular maintenance. She further urged the community to continue strengthening unity and resilience, uphold cleanliness, and actively participate in national programs such as Ejo Heza savings and community-based health insurance.

Community work (umuganda) stood as a powerful reminder that Rwanda’s progress is built through policies and the hands of its people. The spirit of collective action continues to shape a stronger, more self-reliant nation.