Rwanda is very interesting from a local government point of view. The country is divided down to very small community groups called Umadugadu (I have to check that spelling) and community leaders are responsible for taking care of their neighbourhoods. To start any community project in Rwanda, you need to work your way up from the local leader up to the ministries because without the local authority’s approval, nothing will get done.
On the last Saturday of every month, Rwanda has a community service day called Umuganda. For three hours in the morning, community members are suppose to work on a project designated by the Umudugadu leaders. It is a wonderful way for the community to work together to keep the neighbourhood in good condition and in the afternoon everyone get together to enjoy sports games and socialize.
Last month for Umuganda I was up north visiting Emily, friend of mine who works for Partners in Health (the public health organization started by Paul Farmer). She is helping to set up a health clinic and is very much a part of her Umudugadu. So, in line with community participation I headed out with the PIH crew to hoe some ditches.
I have to say, I am terrible with a hoe, and despite receiving numerous lessons on my technique I was more a comical display than a useful addition to the team! In the end, my hoe was seized by a more experienced hoer and I was left to dance, sing and practice my Kirwandan as entertainment to the locals.
On the last Saturday of every month, Rwanda has a community service day called Umuganda. For three hours in the morning, community members are suppose to work on a project designated by the Umudugadu leaders. It is a wonderful way for the community to work together to keep the neighbourhood in good condition and in the afternoon everyone get together to enjoy sports games and socialize.
Last month for Umuganda I was up north visiting Emily, friend of mine who works for Partners in Health (the public health organization started by Paul Farmer). She is helping to set up a health clinic and is very much a part of her Umudugadu. So, in line with community participation I headed out with the PIH crew to hoe some ditches.
I have to say, I am terrible with a hoe, and despite receiving numerous lessons on my technique I was more a comical display than a useful addition to the team! In the end, my hoe was seized by a more experienced hoer and I was left to dance, sing and practice my Kirwandan as entertainment to the locals.
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