The President of the East African Court of Justice (EACJ), Nestor Kayobera, and his colleagues joined the community work this Saturday, February 22, 2025 in Kigali, for a special umuganda (community workday) in the Kimironko sector of Gasabo District.
They were joined by Dr. Valentine Uwamariya, the Minister of Environment, and other local leaders, all encouraging residents to register land changes and use their land properly according to the city’s planning guidelines. The goal is to improve land management and avoid disputes.
The event brought together many people, including the State Minister from the Ministry of Local Government, Kayisire Solange, members of parliament, local government officials, and community members. They worked together to repair a bridge linking the Akintwari and Nyirabwana villages. The bridge project will help residents travel more easily and access important services.
Minister Uwamariya used the opportunity to remind people about the importance of registering land transactions with a notary public, whether buying or receiving land as a gift. “This is to prevent future conflicts and make sure land use follows the city’s guidelines,” she said.
The umuganda also kicked off Land Management and Use Week, which runs from February 22 to February 28, 2025. The week is aimed at raising awareness about land registration and proper use across Rwanda.
Residents expressed excitement and gratitude for the bridge repair, seeing it as a major improvement in connectivity. They are optimistic that the project will make travel easier and bring the communities of Akintwari and Nyirabwana closer together.
Kigali City Mayor Samuel Dusengiyumva thanked everyone for their hard work during the umuganda. He stressed that community projects like this help improve the city’s infrastructure and bring people together. “This is more than just building structures; it’s about building stronger communities and better lives for all of us,” he said. He also assured residents that the bridge linking Kibagabaga would be completed soon, improving travel between the villages.
Justice Kayobera showed his support for the bridge project and said that the East African Court of Justice, along with other partners, will continue helping the communities of Akintwari and Nyirabwana with their infrastructure needs.
Umuganda is a great example of how citizens, government, and organizations can work together to create positive change. The city is making progress in improving both its infrastructure and land management, which will make life better for everyone in Kigali.
