Rwandan Diaspora in Copenhagen Embraces Umuganda, Strengthening Community Ties and National Pride

The Rwandan diaspora in Copenhagen has embraced the ancient practice of Umuganda, a term in the Kinyarwanda language that means "coming together in common aim to accomplish an outcome."

Umuganda is a monthly phenomenon in Rwanda where citizens conduct community work aimed at building their local communities and contributing to the nation-building process.

Every last Saturday of each month, between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM, the shops close, and traffic is brought to a standstill as Rwandans nationwide gather to undertake community service.

This practice inculcates a sense of civic responsibility and promotes cohesiveness in society.

On 22nd February 2025, the members of the Rwandan community in Copenhagen brought this meaningful practice to Denmark, and a Umuganda ceremony was held in the Gladsaxe Commune, which forms part of the Greater Copenhagen area.

The activity, which had been graced by Rwandan diaspora members from across the continent, served not only as a community service initiative but also as a platform where participants reunited under the principle of Ubudasa (exceptionality).

The event was addressed by Mr. Teajeni Misago, the Chairperson of the Rwandan Community in Copenhagen, who spoke on the importance of cohesion and collective responsibility in creating a lively community.

He reiteratingly emphasized the need for concerted efforts to solve local problems while also noting the passion of the community in ensuring they have a clean and sustainable world.

Mr. Misago was also thankful to Dr. Ngoga J. Innocent, who presided over the event, for his leadership, dedication in coordinating activities for the Rwandan Community Abroad in Denmark (RCA Denmark).

Following the performance of the Umuganda activities, the community took their Annual General Meeting.

The meetings were centered on the Rwandan diaspora contribution to Rwanda's growth and how they could maximize the potential of the existing opportunities to propel Visit Rwanda and Brand Made in Rwanda, particularly in cultural activities, entertainment, and business conferences.

Among the key issues under discussion was the significant rise in remittances from RCA Denmark members.

Remittances reached an all-time high of $505 million (over Rwf 705 billion) in 2023, from $65 million in 2010, according to the National Bank of Rwanda (BNR).

The remittances play a vital role in the economy and development of Rwanda.

The significance of Umuganda is not just its importance in Rwanda.

It has become a powerful symbol of diaspora spirit among Rwandans, allowing the diaspora to remain connected to their nation while contributing to good in Rwanda and in their new communities.

The practice transcends geographical distance, reasserting the collective responsibility of Rwandans to contribute to the development of their nation, even from afar.

The Gladsaxe Municipality administration praised the event, noting the high degree of cooperation and solidarity demonstrated by the Rwandan community.

The municipality also promised that it would never be absent at future Umuganda events and pledged to encourage other communities in Copenhagen to engage in this valuable initiative.