GICUMBI - The Governor of the Northern Province, Aime Bosenibamwe, has called on local leaders to work as a team in implementing government development programmes.

He made the call Monday during a meeting to evaluate Gicumbi District development programmes, at the district conference hall.

"It is important that local leaders work as a team to accelerate development in their respective localities. These include, promoting land consolidation, to increase agriculture production, sensitise residents to join health insurance schemes, and family planning,” he said.

He further urged the district and other local leaders to protect the environment and promote hygiene and sanitation in public and private institutions.

"This should be done through planting of trees and flower gardens around schools, health centres and district and sector administrative offices,” he added.

At the meeting, the district coordinator of social affairs, Deogratius Mwanafunzi, highlighted the district’s achievements in regard to the beautification campaign.

"The district has so far planted flower gardens at the district headquarters, 18 sectors and 49 secondary schools,” said Mwanafunzi.

On the district’s security situation, the District Police Commander, Superintendent Hubert Gashagaza, informed the meeting that a total of 39 crimes were registered in October, most of which were Gender Based Violence (GBV).
The Police chief added that such crimes, including defilement, are common in Byumba, Kageyo, Bukure, Giti and Nyankenke sectors.

"The GBV crimes are mainly committed by housemaids and residents who are under the influence of illicit drinks,” he said.

He, however, noted that the crimes reduced drastically in November due to collaboration between residents and security personnel.

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