Egypt’s Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Hani Sewilam took part in Rwanda’s monthly community service day known as “Umuganda” during his official visit to the country, Egypt’s water ministry said. He participated at the invitation of Rwanda’s Environment Minister Bernadette Arakwu, accompanied by members of the joint steering committee for the bilateral Water Resources Management and Irrigation Project.
Egypt’s Water Resources and Irrigation Minister Hani Sewilam participated in Rwanda’s nationwide “Umuganda” initiative, a monthly community service day held on the last Saturday of every month, during his official visit, according to a statement from the ministry on Sunday. This program unites citizens and officials across Rwanda for public works such as environmental clean-ups and tree planting, embodying a culture of collective action and sustainable development.
Sewilam was joined by Egypt’s ambassador to Rwanda, Hanan Shaheen, and members of the delegation, including those from the joint steering committee for the bilateral Water Resources Management and Irrigation Project. They planted trees as a symbolic gesture underscoring shared commitment to environmental protection and nature-based solutions, the statement said.
Both sides emphasized the value of drawing on such community-driven experiences to bolster cooperation and advance sustainability initiatives across Africa. The participation occurred amid Sewilam’s official trip, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties in water resources and irrigation management. Umuganda remains a cornerstone of Rwandan society, fostering environmental awareness and social solidarity.