The Mayor of Kigali, Samuel Dusengiyumva, and the Minister of Local Government, Dominique Habimana, joined residents of Masaka Sector in Kicukiro District on Tuesday for the bi-monthly Inteko y’Abaturage (Community Assembly), where they called on citizens to play a greater role in building healthier, cleaner and more resilient communities.
The meeting formed part of community assemblies held simultaneously across all districts of the City of Kigali, providing leaders with an opportunity to engage directly with residents, listen to their concerns and discuss national and local development priorities.
Addressing the gathering, Mayor Dusengiyumva commended residents for their continued contribution towards achieving the government’s development agenda.
He reminded the people of Masaka that their sector has been designated as one of Kigali’s priority areas for modern urban development, presenting significant opportunities for economic growth and improved living standards.
He noted that several major infrastructure projects are underway in the area, including the construction of new roads, a dedicated health and wellness zone, and initiatives aimed at improving housing and urban planning.
According to the Mayor, these investments are expected to transform Masaka into one of Kigali’s emerging modern residential hubs.
Dusengiyumva also encouraged residents to take greater responsibility for protecting their health by enrolling in the community-based health insurance scheme (Mutuelle de Santé) and observing other public health measures introduced by the government.
He further warned against the consumption of illicit alcoholic beverages and other substandard drinks, saying they have caused serious harm to many people and continue to pose a threat to public health and community wellbeing.
Minister Habimana echoed the Mayor’s message, emphasizing the importance of citizen-centred governance and active public participation in national development.
He urged residents to maintain cleanliness in their communities, ensure timely payment of Mutuelle de Santé contributions, and work together to build safe, healthy and responsible families.
The Minister also called for stronger community efforts to prevent drug abuse and combat the production and consumption of illicit alcoholic beverages, stressing that protecting families and young people from substance abuse remains a national priority.
The Inteko y’Abaturage assemblies are held twice each month across Rwanda and serve as a key platform for dialogue between citizens and government leaders, enabling communities to raise concerns, monitor development programmes and strengthen accountability at the local level.
