NORTHERN PROVINCE

BURERA — Samuel Sembagari was last week sworn in as the new Mayor of Burera District, replacing Aime Bosenibamwe who was early this year appointed Governor of the Northern Province.

Sembagari was elected unanimously by an electoral body composed of 435 members from both district and sector advisory councils. He has been serving as the District Executive Secretary.

The President of Musanze Grand Instance Court, Izabela Riziki administered the oath of office to the new mayor  at a ceremony witnessed by thousands of cheering residents.

Speaking as chief guest, the Minister of Local Government, Protais Musoni, challenged the local authorities not to struggle for political office, but let their excellence at work speak for them.

Calling for team work, he urged the new Mayor to develop an appropriate vision for the district in order to realise the district’s plans as embedded in their performance contracts. 

In his acceptance speech, Sembagari outlined 19 urgent issues he would tackle. Part of his new plans included setting up of savings and credit cooperatives in each sector and strengthening the capacity of the district staff.

He said he would build on the good programmes instituted by his predecessor  while being guided by performance contracts.

"We have witnessed the district emerge from isolation, it now has network connection, improved feeder roads, terraces, we shall adopt other initiatives from else where as we move ahead,” he said.

Governor, Bosenibamwe, the outgoing Mayor, called upon other leaders to stand above conflicts and intrigue.    

He commended the people of Burera for their efforts to fight poverty and their cooperation in fighting corruption and other crimes.

Joseph Zaraduhaye, who has been acting as the interim Mayor retains his post of vice Mayor.

Ends