Umuganda
I don't know how well it works in practice, how Rwandans feel about it, or if the connection with a colonial past is problematic, but I do like the idea behind this:
Umuganda is a national holiday in Rwanda taking place on the last Saturday of every month for mandatory nationwide community service from 08:00 to 11:00. Participation in Umuganda is required by law; failure to participate can result in a fine.
The program was most recently re-established under President Paul Kagame in 2009, having resulted in a notable improvement in the cleanliness of Rwanda. Also, there are other informal Umuganda day activities that occur in the middle of the month. These activities are initiated by either society or the government.
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Umuganda as it exists presently was instituted in 2009. It is now regarded as a day of community clean-up.[4][9] The Rwandan government uses the day to implement programs and plans, like poverty reduction and economic growth. It is meant to involve people in the "decision-making process" and promote involvement in the community. Also, the government is able to have "a forum for local officials to inform citizens about the important news, and for residents to discuss community or individual needs, and as contributing to unity and progress locally, as well as to national development". There is a sense of reconciliation in Rwanda because of Umuganda; however, it is not well documented how much of the Rwandan population feels this way. This may be due to the election and presidency of President Kagame.
Inspired by the success of Umuganda in Rwanda, the Mayor of Johannesburg Herman Mashaba introduced a volunteer cleanup programme called A Re Sebetseng in August 2017. President Kagame says about Umuganda day: "We have been talking of schools and new roads—that is what Rwandans deserve. These shouldn't be something out of the ordinary. We may need assistance from others but use it so we can reach where we want to be. Any initiative based on these principles is worthwhile and will be sustainable". The United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) instituted a similar program in South Sudan in June 2019. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the practice of Umuganda was a way to mobilize the community to mental and physical health.
Source: Original article · Are.na block · Finds channel · Image: Claude Nizeyimana