Date: 22 May 2026
Venue: Rweru Sector, Bugesera District
Today, the Bilharzia Storytelling Initiative (BSI) Rwanda celebrated a heartfelt milestone in Bugesera District as the community gathered for a special event at EP Nzangwa in the Rweru Sector. What began as a mission to fight a neglected disease has evolved into a vibrant movement where stories have become the community’s strongest shield. Local leaders, healthcare providers, and families came together not just to review data, but to celebrate the children who have truly taken ownership of their own health and future.
The energy of the day was captured through the voices and performances of the students themselves, bringing together three key participating schools: EP Nzangwa, EP Kivusha, and EP Magina. From the rhythmic traditional dances to the insightful sketches and moving poems performed by students from EP Kakirenzi, EP Kivusha, and EP Magina, the event proved that health education is most powerful when it is felt, not just heard. These performances weren’t just entertainment; they were a beautiful display of how deeply the children now understand Bilharzia prevention. The real world change is already hitting home, where children are no longer just students, but are actively teaching their parents and siblings about clean water and hygiene, leading to a visible drop in risky sanitation behaviors across the sector.
The heart of the afternoon was the recognition of the “Outstanding Students,” young leaders who have gone above and beyond to champion peer to peer health education. These awards were a tribute to their dedication to keeping their friends healthy and safe. As the event concluded, the reflections from the Director of Public Health for Bugesera made it clear that while this event marks the completion of a major phase, the spirit of the initiative remains alive. By officially promising the district’s continued backing for these community driven practices and putting the power of change into the hands of the youth, Bugesera has built a lasting legacy of health, hope, and resilience.