The Minister made the remarks on Saturday, September 19, 2020 during a visit to Bugesera District, where he spoke to representatives of local authorities, the private sector and opinion leaders in the area.

Shyaka told local authorities that their reputation as “Abakeramurimo ba Bugesera” should strengthen their commitment towards strategizing for inclusive development without leaving anyone in all people-life-changing programs.

“If you don’t want to be called ‘work delayers’ you should take care of these issues that are still prevalent in the community and solve them in a short time. Your district is rich compared to others; you should, therefore, act and behave like those who understand they are lucky among many others,” he advised.

So far 77.7% of the population of Bugesera District has already paid their health insurance contributions, and only 18.6% of the population has already contributed Rwf 44.7 million on their Savings while the entire district has a target of Rwf240 million this year.

On the other hand, there are still emerging issues including families with no houses, lack of toilets, malnutrition in children and poor hygiene.

Some of the leaders immediately vowed before the Minister that in two weeks’ time, they will have addressed the major challenges in the district including mobilization of the population to subscribe for mutual health insurance and child malnutrition.

The Bugesera Private Sector also committed to making a significant contribution to addressing social and development challenges.

Bugesera has a population of 479,624 living on an area of 1,337 km2; the majority are farmers, while others are involved in different activities including fishing in the lakes of Cyohoha, Gashanga, Kidogo, Rumira, Mirayi, Kirimbi and Gaharwa.

Prof. Shyaka Anastase has called upon local leaders in Bugesera District to work towards sustaining their reputation as “Abakeramurimo ba Bugesera”

Some of the leaders vowed to address the major challenges in the district including mobilization of the population to subscribe for mutual health insurance