Editor,

So many policies are in place to foster the development of our country. These are mainly in the infrastructure and business sections. The developments are clear but many Rwandans are forgetting one important aspect of development—Etiquette.

The issue of etiquette is a grave one as far as I am concerned. This whole business of people spitting, picking noses, sneezing in bare hands (Eww!) and men pushing old mama’s as they enter an empty bus, is disappointing and yet very common in our society.

Whatever the reason for the failure in good manners is, there is no excuse for such behaviuor in the 21st century.

Let’s remember that Rwanda has gained a reputation to maintain when it comes to cleanliness. But it looks like our people have no clue about this ‘Keep Kigali Clean’ big plan.

Kigali city has been ranked the cleanest city in the whole of Africa; it is not like elsewhere where the issue of the plastic bags has never been resolved.

If Rwandans have managed to keep away from the deadly plastic bags, can’t we find a place in our hearts to adapt good manners? People can surely stop spitting around, start using and sneezing in handkerchiefs or tissue paper and learn to respect old ladies.

As Rwanda develops its infrastructure, its people can as well upgrade their manners to match the developments.  Let’s all be responsible citizens and remember there is a reputation to maintain.

Innocent Manzi
Kacyiru