The Gakenke District has officially opened the 14th Annual Joint Action Development Forum (JADF) Open Day and Exhibition, giving residents a rare opportunity to see how development projects are changing their lives while encouraging them to take an active role in building their communities.
The four-day exhibition, launched on July 28, 2026, in Gakenke Sector, brings together government institutions, development partners, businesses, civil society organizations, and local entrepreneurs under the theme, “Our Unity is Our Strength.” The event highlights achievements in agriculture, health, education, livestock, sanitation, youth empowerment, and economic development, while creating a platform for citizens to interact directly with organizations working in the district.
A Platform That Connects People with Development
The opening ceremony was led by Gakenke District Mayor Vestine Mukandayisenga, accompanied by the Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development, Aimé Niyonsenga, the President of JADF Gakenke Dr Valence Hafashimana, development partners, and hundreds of residents.
The annual exhibition is more than a showcase of projects. It is designed to help citizens understand the services available to them, ask questions, share ideas, and discover opportunities that can improve their lives.
Addressing participants, Mayor Mukandayisenga praised the strong partnership between the district and development organizations, saying their joint efforts have played a major role in improving the lives of families across Gakenke.
“The progress we see in Gakenke today is the result of strong cooperation between the district, development partners, the private sector, and our citizens. Together, we have reduced poverty, improved people’s living conditions, and created more opportunities for families to build better lives. This exhibition allows people to see these achievements with their own eyes and learn how they can benefit from different services and programs.”
The Mayor said the district remains committed to working closely with all partners to ensure that development reaches every community.
She also used the event to encourage young people to become self-reliant by learning practical skills and taking advantage of available opportunities instead of engaging in harmful behaviors.
“I encourage our young people to work hard, learn skills, and believe in their future. Avoid drugs and unsafe food or drinks that can destroy your health and your dreams. The future of Gakenke depends on a responsible and hardworking generation that is ready to contribute to the development of our district and our country.”
Organizations Showcase Projects That Change Lives
The exhibition has attracted organizations working in many sectors, including agriculture, livestock, education, health, sanitation, financial inclusion, and community development.
One of the organizations participating is TUJYANEMO HDVC, a Rwandan non-governmental organization that supports children with disabilities, vulnerable families, women, and communities across Northern Province.
Speaking during the exhibition, Christine Mukeshimana, Director of TUJYANEMO HDVC, said the event offers an important opportunity to share the organization’s achievements and build stronger partnerships.
“Today we are proud to participate in the JADF Gakenke Open Day, where we are presenting the work and achievements of TUJYANEMO HDVC. This exhibition allows us to show development partners, district leaders, and local communities how our programs are improving people’s lives. It is also a chance to learn from others and strengthen cooperation because development is achieved when everyone works together.”
Mukeshimana explained that the organization is promoting sustainable farming through Permagarden, a method that helps vulnerable families grow enough nutritious food throughout the year while fighting malnutrition.
She said TUJYANEMO HDVC is also training communities on proper nutrition to improve the health of children and families.
Another major focus is women’s economic empowerment. The organization trains women in tailoring and supports them to produce reusable sanitary pads, creating both employment and affordable menstrual hygiene products.
“Women who receive these skills are able to earn income, support their families, and improve menstrual hygiene in their communities. Reusable sanitary pads reduce costs for girls and women while also creating business opportunities for those who make them. We are proud to see women becoming financially independent through these projects.”
The organization also equips young people with disabilities with vocational skills, including shoemaking and other trades that help them secure employment and become economically independent.
“Every young person deserves the opportunity to succeed. By teaching practical skills, we help young people with disabilities gain confidence, find work, and build a better future. We believe that disability should never be a barrier to opportunity.”
Local Entrepreneurs Also Benefit
The exhibition is not only benefiting development organizations. Local entrepreneurs are also using the event to introduce their products to new customers and learn from other exhibitors.
Among them is Ivonne Mutuyimana, who displayed nutritious porridge flour products.
She described the exhibition as an important marketing opportunity.
“This exhibition gives us the chance to introduce our products to many people who may never have known about our business. It also allows us to meet other entrepreneurs, exchange ideas, and learn better ways of improving our products and serving customers. Events like this help small businesses grow.”.
Building Stronger Communities Through Partnership
The JADF Open Day has become one of Gakenke District’s annual events because it brings government institutions, development partners, businesses, and citizens together in one place.
Instead of simply reading reports about development projects, residents have the opportunity to see the results firsthand, speak directly with organizations, and better understand how they can benefit from available programs.
District officials believe this open interaction increases transparency, strengthens accountability, and encourages citizens to actively participate in their own development.
The 14th JADF Gakenke Open Day and Exhibition will continue until July 31, 2026, giving thousands of residents’ additional time to visit exhibition stands, discover new opportunities, and engage with organizations working to improve their communities.
