On September 26, 2026, a mass community service event, known as Umuganda, was held in the Rugende area of Kigali, Rwanda. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, and was aimed at promoting community service and addressing social issues. During the event, participants cleaned a local road and drainage system, and planted trees in a nearby wetland. The event was also attended by local artists, including Bruce Melodie and Davis D.
The event was organized to raise awareness about the dangers of illicit substances, including shisha, and to encourage community members to work together to address these issues. Participants were urged to report anyone found selling or using illicit substances, including shisha, to the authorities. Minister Nsanzimana noted that some people in the area still use metal containers to brew and consume illicit substances, and urged community members to be vigilant and report such activities.
During the event, Minister Nsanzimana was presented with a plea to ban shisha in Rwanda. The plea was made by community members, who expressed concerns about the negative impact of shisha on public health. Minister Nsanzimana noted that shisha is a significant public health risk, and that it can lead to serious health problems, including cancer and heart disease. He urged community members to work together to address the issue and to promote healthy lifestyles.
The event was also attended by Kigali City Mayor, Samuel Dusengiyumva, who urged community members to work together to address social issues, including the use of illicit substances. He noted that the city is committed to promoting public health and safety, and that community members have a critical role to play in achieving these goals. Mayor Dusengiyumva also urged community members to prioritize cleanliness and hygiene, particularly during the rainy season.
According to the World Health Organization, tobacco use is a major public health risk, and is responsible for over 8 million deaths worldwide each year. In Rwanda, tobacco use is a significant public health concern, and the government has implemented various measures to reduce its use. The event was part of a broader effort to promote public health and safety in Rwanda, and to address the negative impacts of illicit substances on communities.
The event featured musical performances by local artists, including Bruce Melodie and Davis D. The artists urged young people to prioritize their health and well-being, and to avoid using illicit substances. They noted that Rwanda's future depends on its young people, and that they have a critical role to play in promoting positive change in their communities.
The Umuganda event was a success, with hundreds of community members participating and pledging to work together to address social issues. Minister Nsanzimana thanked community members for their participation and pledged to work with them to address the issues raised during the event. The event demonstrated the commitment of the Rwandan government and its people to promoting public health and safety, and to addressing the negative impacts of illicit substances on communities.
Key points
- Rwandan Health Minister Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana receives plea to ban shisha in Rwanda.
