The festive season is upon us and it is that time of year when many around the world take time off work to indulge with friends and family.

End of year festivities serve as an occasion to reconnect and catch up with loved ones, reflect on the past 12 months and set new personal and family goals for the upcoming year.

Around this time many people across Rwanda and elsewhere head back to the village – some after a year of absence or longer – to share in the joy of any sense of accomplishment with loved ones, go to their childhood church on Christmas, or attend to a longstanding family matter.

Everyone needs some downtime to rewind, take stock and refuel. And to celebrate life, achievements, and loved ones.

But we should do so with a great sense of responsibility for ourselves and others knowing that everyone will need to be in their best shape – physically, emotionally and mentally – to take on challenges that lie ahead and to achieve their goals for the future.

From making appropriate lifestyle choices to exercising discipline on roads, it is important that you celebrate holidays responsibly.

In Rwanda, the festive season comes at a time the country is witnessing a sharp decline in fatal road accidents thanks to the ongoing ‘Gerayo Amahoro’ campaign by the Rwanda National Police.

Speaking on the last day of the 2019 National Umushyikirano Council on Friday, the Police boss said deaths from road accidents had reduced by 42 per cent in recent months, urging road users, especially motorists, to observe road safety rules.

This is a positive development and it shows that most fatal road incidents are avoidable if only people can respect the law.

For instance, driving under the influence is a criminal offence and we don’t need law enforcement organs to launch road safety campaigns to start respecting the law.

This should be the case at all time – including during festive seasons.

In addition, the urge for merrymaking must not compromise your ability to make a sound decision. Impulsive or reckless decisions taken in the name of enjoyment can have far-reaching consequences on your personal and family goals, or even on your life – and this must be avoided.

While it is important that you take time to celebrate with your loved ones this holiday season, we urge you to do so responsibly.

Happy holidays everyone!