In Rundu, at Kavumu Primary School, a sports court for basketball and volleyball was officially inaugurated. The court was constructed through a partnership between Kayonza District and the Ejo Youth Dignity Foundation, which is supported by Umoja Community Mosaic, an organization founded by a Rwandan living in Canada.
Although the construction involved financial support, a lot of praise was directed towards the community members for their voluntary work. When residents learned that new sports facilities were going to be built for their children, the news energized the whole community. Everyone got involved flattening the ground and doing other manual work, according to Jean Claude Munyezamu, the director of Umoja Community Mosaic.
“The role of the community in what is done for them is very important. To truly own something, it’s not just about being there it’s about contributing. The value of the work done by residents here might even surpass the money we spent.” Munyezamu said.
He added that these community-based initiatives are inspired by the positive image and strong leadership of Rwanda’s government particularly in promoting security, development, and well-being for all citizens.
Everyone in the community contributed. Muhawenimana Francine recalled how, even while she had a family member hospitalized, she would still find time to join the communal work. Even showing up and working for just 30 minutes, she said, gave her a sense of contribution to something important a playground for their children.
Ngendabanga Jean Marie Vianney, another Rundu resident, emphasized that people now clearly understand the importance of active involvement in community projects. When citizens take part in building something, they tend to value and maintain it better.
“There are real reasons why we took part in this project. For example, they once brought us clean water, which changed our lives. Before that, children had to walk 7 kilometers just to fetch water, and then still go to school.” Ngendabanga shared.
He added that remembering how hard life used to be motivates people to contribute, so that they never return to those hardships.
Support from Local Leaders
Uzamukunda Françoise, a local leader, confirmed that such success requires strong mobilization from grassroots leaders.
“All my children study here. Whenever there was a community work day, we all showed up. As leaders, it wasn’t hard to encourage others to join because we reminded them this project is ours, and it must be done well.” She spoke.
More Developments Underway
At Kavumu Primary School, not only was a sports court built, but the area also saw improvements like:Water tanks for harvesting rainwater, a reliable water supply system,Plans to build a football and handball pitch, future plans to extend electricity, clean water, and to improve Kabura Road.
Recognition of partnership and progress
The Executive Secretary of Kabarondo Sector, Gatanazi Longin, praised how well the community is working with development partners:
“We are on a journey of self-reliance, self-development, and finding solutions from within. We must take ownership and play our part in building the country.” He stated.
What the School has received
EP Kavumu, a new school only three years old, has received: Access to clean water, a basketball and volleyball court, Water tanks, 19 basketballs, 9 footballs, 9 volleyballs, 47 pairs of soccer cleats, 145 sports jerseys, 37 corner flags, 3 referee flags.
All of this is valued at approximately 30 million Rwandan Francs and these efforts aim to create a supportive learning environment where children not only receive quality education but also nurture their talents in sports.
