On Friday, September 20, 2024, Bralirwa Plc, part of the HEINEKEN Company, in partnership with Rubavu District, marked the World Cleanup Day through engaging in clean-up activities around the shores of Lake Kivu and donation of hygiene materials.

Under the global theme, ‘Make Room for Life’, Bralirwa, Rwanda’s leading beverage company, joined efforts with the cooperatives working along the shores of Lake Kivu in Nyamyumba sector in clean-up activities and discussions on waste management, in commemoration of the global cleanup day.

In December 2023, the United Nations General Assembly resolutions proclaimed September 20 as World Cleanup Day, with the purpose of raising awareness of the role that clean-up efforts play in sustainable development.

The community was thrilled to engage in the activities and awareness discussions on how to conserve the natural environment through a shared sense of responsibility. Bralirwa Head of Corporate Affairs and Communications, Rosette Mutoni, explained how environmental sustainability is one of the pillars under the company’s ‘Brew a Better World’ agenda.

"Sustainability and responsibility are an integral part of how we operate as a business. While the road to a waste-free world is long, initiatives like World Cleanup Day serve as a platform to foster environmental awareness and advocate for sustainable practices that are crucial to achieving a healthier and cleaner planet,” she said.

Yoram Maniraguha, a representative from one of the cooperatives working at the shore of Lake Kivu, appreciated the learnings from the day’s activities and pledged his commitment to promoting environmental healthy practices.

"Participating in the cleanup activities today made me realise how much of a difference we can make together. It’s not just about picking up trash—it’s about taking ownership of our community and setting an example for future generations to care for the environment,” said Maniraguha.

In his appreciation remarks, the Mayor of Rubavu, Prosper Mulindwa, commended Bralirwa for the great initiative as well as donation of garbage collection bins to the cooperatives, and called upon residents to be more vigilant in keeping the shores and the city clean.

"Healthy practices are a result of continuous awareness that affects long term behaviour change. Today, we are reminded that the health of our planet is in our hands. Each small act of care contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable environment – let’s together thrive for a cleaner city,” said Mulindwa.