Nestled in the Lake Kivu, administratively located in Bushaka Cell, Boneza Sector of Rutsiro District, Bugarura Island is home to 2,469 people of whom 369 are children below five years. The astonishing story behind this island lies in being stunting-free in a district whose 33.8% of children are stunted.

At the shores of the island, you are welcomed by boats, indicating that fishing is the main economic activity for the two-village island. During late afternoon hours, men are always asleep to save energy for late night hours sailing above the waters.

According to Rutsiro District Mayor, Dativa Kayitesi, the Island has never recorded a case of stunting despite having a growing number of children.

“This is mainly attributed to the fact that this place is rich to fishery, with small fishes known as ‘isambaza’ being served to children frequently. We thank locals for feeding children with fishes before they take the rest to the market,” she said.

Though the island is free from stunting, it is always hit by waterborne disease that can hinder children’s growth since it has no access to safe water.

On July 22^nd, the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Consolee Uwimana alongside the Director General for the National Child Development Agency (NCDA), Ingabire Assumpta and the Governor of Western Province, Jean Bosco Ntibitura visited the island.

Addressing the locals, Minister Uwimana hailed them for championing children’s growth and development as indicated by the children’s nutrition status. 

“You are lucky to have this lake; let’s it be an opportunity for socio-economic development for you to live a dignified life, and invest in your children by taking them to school. I urge you to avoid family conflicts by legalizing your marriages, and prioritize family dialogues in all matters,” she urged.

She reminded the public to prevent child defilement by reporting suspected cases to the relevant authorities and cautioned them on any attempts to reconcile perpetrators with their victims.