Musanze District leaders have urged children to stand firm in unity, actively defend their rights, and reject any form of division through young representatives gathered for a strategic training aimed at strengthening their voice and role in national development.
A total of 96 children came together in a training organized for members of the Children’s Forum Committees at both sector and district levels. The initiative focused on promoting children’s rights and enhancing their meaningful participation in decisions that affect their lives and communities.
The training was attended by the Vice Mayor in charge of Social Affairs, Kayiranga Theobald, who highlighted the importance of empowering children as key stakeholders in Rwanda’s future. The sessions provided a platform for participants to share ideas, build leadership skills, and prepare proposals that will be presented at the 18th National Children’s Summit scheduled for August 2026.
Addressing the participants, Kayiranga emphasized the need for children to remain united and resist any attempts to divide them through hatred or harmful ideologies. He encouraged them to prioritize education, work hard, and build their future based on strong national values.
“You must not allow anyone to plant division among you, Focus on your studies, strive for excellence, and build yourselves on the foundation of unity through the ‘Ndi Umunyarwanda’ program.” He said.
The training is part of a structured approach designed to ensure that knowledge reaches all levels of children’s representation. After the sessions, the trained participants will pass on the knowledge to Children’s Forum Committees at the cell level, which will further train committees at the village level. This cascading model ensures that awareness of children’s rights and responsibilities spreads widely across communities.
Participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity, noting that the training has empowered them with knowledge and confidence to speak up and contribute to national development. Many highlighted that being involved in such platforms strengthens their leadership abilities and sense of responsibility.
The emphasis on the “Ndi Umunyarwanda” program reflects Rwanda’s broader vision of nurturing a generation grounded in unity, identity, and patriotism. Leaders believe that instilling these values early will help build a society free from division and rooted in mutual respect.
This initiative demonstrates Musanze District’s commitment to investing in children as agents of change. Rwanda prepares for the 18th National Children’s Summit, the ideas generated from such trainings are expected to play a key role in shaping policies and programs that impact children nationwide.
