Kigali City Council,together with Gasabo District, Thursday begun observing what they called ‘Patriotism Month’.

The event, whose launch coincided with October 1, an important date in the country’s history when the liberation struggle was launched, was held at GS Kagugu Catholique in Gisozi under the theme, "Patriotism is well entrenched in Rwandans’ culture.”

The event was characterised by traditional dance and plays by various troupes, displaying and teaching Rwandan traditional values.

Gasabo mayor Stephen Rwamurangwa urged the youth to be the first to take initiative for promoting the spirit of patriotism and building the country.

"You are the future generation and have the power to develop the nation. Be the first to have the spirit of patriotism and should dedicate your energy and do everything possible so that our country can have peace, security and the development that we need,” he said.

Rwamurangwa said starting such an activity among the youth was very meaningful given the fact that the youth are the ones that liberated the country.

Dr Cyprien Niyomugabo, the head of Rwanda Academy of Language and Culture, urged the youth to stick to the Rwandan core traditional values since they are what unites Rwandans.

"Have the real Rwandan values of being patriotic. Our country is like a cradle that holds us and brings us together, therefore we must love it. However small or big it is, it is our nation and we are proud of it. We must have the courage to build it into a better nation for sustainable future,” he said.

Samuel Nkurunziza, a senior three student at the school, said being patriotic is wide in scope.

"It means sacrifice, teaching our culture and traditional values so that others can also be interested in them, and finally working for our country in any way so that it can be developed. I feel my part to build it is to excel in my studies, help my colleagues and participate in government activities,” Nkurunziza said.

During this month, several activities will be carried out including; planting trees, holding discussions on patriotism, creating awareness among the young generation and helping the vulnerable population.