Muhanga Launches ’Intore mu Biruhuko’ Program to Support Children During School Holidays

The initiative, known as Intore mu Biruhuko, has been launched at 60 sites across the district one for each administrative cell with additional locations established to accommodate the geographic spread and ensure all children have access.

Muhanga District Mayor Jacqueline Kayitare said the program’s core focus is to educate children on civic values, Rwanda’s true history, personal safety, and awareness of issues that may violate children’s rights during the holiday period.

“This program creates space for open dialogue with children, giving them the opportunity to express any form of abuse or difficulties they may be experiencing at home,” Kayitare said. “When you talk to a child, you learn about their life at home, what affects their well-being, and how to help protect them.”

She added that the program also includes recreational activities and talent development opportunities, offering a safe and productive environment during the break.

“Where children meet, they get to play and discover their talents,” she said. “Intore mu Biruhuko is a chance to monitor children closely and nurture their skills so they can benefit from them in the future.”

The program comes as a relief to many children who have previously been confined at home during holidays for safety reasons, often discouraged by parents from visiting friends due to concerns over negative peer influence.

“During the holidays, we want to meet and play with friends,” said one child. “But at home, our parents worry that we might pick up bad behavior, so they don’t let us go out. Now, we can gather in a safe environment, talk, play, and have fun.”

Another child noted that some parents use the holiday as a chance to assign children extra chores, limiting their time to rest or socialize.

“In the past, holidays meant working at home all day or being kept inside,” the child said. “But now we’ll have afternoons free to learn and meet others. It’s also a good way to change bad habits through lessons on good values.”

Facilitators overseeing the program have received training and will deliver age-appropriate sessions based on the children’s maturity levels. According to district officials, more than 28,000 children across Muhanga are expected to take part in this year’s edition of Intore mu Biruhuko.

The initiative is part of a broader national effort to promote civic education, peacebuilding, and social responsibility among Rwandan youth through the Itorero cultural model, adapted for holiday engagement.