Every first Friday of August, Rwanda observes Umuganura, an annual festival celebrating unity, culture, and progress. This year's theme, "A Source of Unity and the Foundation for Self-Reliance," reflected the evolving significance of this traditional event.
Dominique Habimana, the Minister of Local Government, led this year's celebration. He extended gratitude to the President of Rwanda for trusting him with the leadership of the ministry. Collaborative efforts with citizens will, he assured, help him achieve his goals.
Speaking to attendees, Minister Habimana elaborated that Umuganura transcends mere sharing. It embodies goal-setting, hard work, and fulfilling promises. He encouraged citizens to adopt diligence as part of their daily routine.
Minister Habimana emphasized that Umuganura continues to be a cornerstone of Rwandan culture, evolving to celebrate achievements from industries like education, technology, tourism, arts, manufacturing, and services.
He noted, "Today's Umuganura is not celebrated in the traditional way. Instead, we now focus on achievements in sectors like services, technology, education, tourism, arts, and manufacturing. Historically, it revolved solely around agriculture and livestock."
He added, "Despite its modernization, the values of Umuganura remain unchanged—planning, self-reliance, hard work, gratitude, sharing, and patriotism."
Highlighting its importance, Minister Habimana shared Rwanda’s active efforts toward having Umuganura listed as a UNESCO World Heritage.
He remarked, "Umuganura represents the most significant cultural celebration in Rwanda today. This is why the government reinstated it in 2011, and we are now pursuing its inscription on UNESCO’s world heritage list."
During the celebration, youth were urged to preserve the tradition, while elders were encouraged to pass on its values to younger generations. Minister Habimana stated, "Umuganura is our unique heritage and legacy as Rwandans. I urge everyone to practice it daily and instill it in the youth."
Brief History of Umuganura
Umuganura originated in the 9th century, gaining prominence during the reign of King Ruganzu II Ndoli (1510-1543), who led Rwanda’s liberation from foreign rule.
By the 16th century, King Ruganzu II Ndoli cemented Umuganura as an integral cultural celebration aimed at restoring unity in Rwanda after prolonged turmoil, including the seizing of the royal drum, Rwoga, by foreign invaders.
Historically, Umuganura was preceded by mourning in May, followed by celebratory events in June, culminating in August festivities to express gratitude for unity and reclaiming the nation.
This ancient tradition faced disruption under colonial rule. Colonists sought to dismantle Rwandan cultural practices, abolishing Umuganura to weaken unity and exiling Gashamura, its chief priest, to Burundi in 1925.
In the 1980s, Umuganura was revived, initially focusing on appreciating agricultural productivity.
The Mayor of Musanze District welcomed dignitaries attending national-level Umuganura celebrations in Musanze.
Among the attendees were the Governor of Northern Province, security officials, and other key leaders, including Minister Dominique Habimana.
The Minister of Local Government presented cows to residents of Musanze District during the festivities.
Minister Dominique Habimana reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment toward officially recognizing Umuganura as a UNESCO world heritage.
Attendees left Umuganura celebrations enriched and inspired.