On Saturday, 25 July 2026, the Embassy of Rwanda in Japan, in partnership with Setagaya City, organized Umuganda in Japan, bringing together residents of the Setagaya community, members of the Rwandan community in Japan, and friends of Rwanda for a day of community service and cultural exchange. Welcoming participants, Ambassador Mukasine expressed her appreciation for the participants who joined the initiative. She highlighted that Umuganda, Rwanda's monthly national community service, is one of the country's impactful Home grown Solutions, fostering unity, collective responsibility, and active citizenship while contributing significantly to Rwanda's development.

The event began with a community clean-up along the pathways surrounding the Embassy, reflecting the shared commitment of Rwanda and Japan to environmental stewardship and civic engagement. Participants also attended a presentation introducing Rwanda's cultural heritage, tourism destinations, travel opportunities, and the history and significance of Umuganda as a model for community-driven development. The program concluded with a cultural exchange, where participants, members of the Rwandan diaspora, and Embassy staff gathered to enjoy Rwanda's world-renowned specialty coffee and freshly prepared traditional mandazi. The occasion provided an opportunity for dialogue, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation of Rwanda's culture and hospitality. 

Umuganda in Japan marked an important milestone in people-to-people relations between Rwanda and Japan. By celebrating this uniquely Rwandan tradition together, participants reaffirmed the shared values of community service, friendship, environmental responsibility, and cooperation that continue to strengthen the enduring partnership between the two countries.

Together for our community. Together for a better future.

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