This was emphasized by some residents from different sectors of Kicukiro during the district-level final match of the Umurenge Kagame Cup 2026, which brought together the sectors of Masaka and Kagarama.
Mukeshimana Clementine and her companion were among the spectators who attended the match. They said the tournament was a source of joy because it brings citizens together, making it easier for them to socialize and relax.
Clementine Mukeshimana said, “Coming to watch these Umurenge Kagame Cup matches really helps us because they unite us with our peers and allow us to have fun. This togetherness prevents loneliness in our lives.”
Her colleague added, “We thank His Excellency Paul Kagame for establishing these competitions, because they help us understand government programs and unite our efforts with others to accelerate development in many areas.”
Among the various government programs currently promoted are participation in community-based health insurance (Mutuelle de Santé), advancing gender equality and complementarity in families, fighting child stunting, preventing school dropouts, and combating teenage pregnancy one of the issues of concern to Rwandan society among others.
Erade Ndayishimiye said the Umurenge Kagame Cup competitions have helped expand development opportunities, including nurturing different talents and strengthening social cohesion among Rwandans, especially residents of Kicukiro District.
He stated, “We greatly appreciate this tournament program initiated by the Head of State because it has helped uncover hidden talents so they can be developed and used productively in one way or another.”
He added that they will continue supporting and implementing the positive programs introduced by President Paul Kagame because they are meant to promote citizens’ development in every way. He stressed that this commitment does not end with the sports day but continues as an ongoing journey of respecting government programs.
Antoine Mutsinzi, the Kicukiro District Executive Administrator-DEA praised the enthusiasm and determination of participants, noting that such spirit forms a strong foundation for collective efforts toward national development.
“We thank everyone who contributed to the successful conduct of these Umurenge Kagame Cup competitions, because this supports the programs our Head of State sets for Rwandans as a path toward the development they aspire to. The competitiveness, determination, patience, integrity, commitment, and loyalty displayed on the field should serve as a mirror for our development activities, and everyone should embrace these values.” He stated.
He reminded residents about the importance of hygiene, emphasizing that it begins with personal cleanliness, extends to the home, and includes public paths and workplaces.
“We urge everyone to promote a culture of cleanliness starting with their own body, clothing, homes, and everywhere they pass, because it is one of the pillars that support good health and make development easier.” He noted.
He added that the effort does not stop with the tournament but will continue so that Kicukiro can outperform others up to the national level.
In this district-level Umurenge Kagame Cup 2026 competition, the women’s trophy was won by Gahanga Sector, which received various prizes including a cheque of one million Rwandan francs.
In the men’s category, Masaka Sector defeated Kagarama Sector and also received prizes including footballs, sports kits, and a cheque worth one million Rwandan francs (1,000,000 Frw).
