He made this appeal on Friday, August 2, 2024, during the annual Harvest Festival, known locally as 'Umuganura Day,' which is celebrated every first Friday of August.
This year's event at national level was held in Mukarange sector of Kayonza District, Eastern Province, under the theme "Umuganura, a Source of Unity and a Foundation for Self-Reliance."
The celebrations began with visits to stands showcasing the district's harvests and local industries.
In his speech, Minister Bizimana emphasized that Umuganura Day is not just about appreciating the harvests and identifying areas for improvement but also a significant cultural practice aimed at fostering unity among Rwandans.
He highlighted that the Government of National reinstated this day in 2011 to build and preserve national unity.
Dr. Bizimana also urged Rwandans to adopt the culture of feeding children at school, ensuring they grow up strong and perform well academically.
He stressed the importance of sharing with less fortunate neighbors to continue building unity.
"We should not just celebrate and forget those who have less. We must care for them, acknowledge them, and continue this practice in our homes," he stated.
The Mayor of Kayonza District, Nyemazi John Bosco, expressed pride in the district's progress in promoting unity among Rwandans. He highlighted the district's collective efforts, leading to significant yields, savings, and surpluses for international markets.
This year, Kayonza District harvested 36,000 tons of maize, 34,000 tons of beans, 12,000 tons of rice, 22,000 tons of cassava, 2,000 tons of soybeans, and 70,000 tons of bananas, among other crops, including a 1,300-hectare irrigated fruit zone.
As part of the celebrations, eleven residents of Kayonza District were given cows and expressed gratitude to the visionary leadership of President Kagame for reviving Umuganura.
They are confident that the cows will provide them with milk, manure, and significantly contribute to economic growth.
"I will have milk for my children and grandchildren. A person who drinks milk becomes stronger. I am profoundly grateful," Emmanuel Nturo, a resident of Gikaya Village in Nyamirama Sector, shared his joy after receiving a cow.
IGIHE
