The delivery of consistent high-quality results in the health sector requires and needs leaders who can set the vision, build a positive culture, and provide the right direction at every level of operation. Good leaders offer guidance, set performance standards, push for innovation, and adapt when the country faces challenges. When serious, far-reaching problems arise—such as global pandemics—it is even more essential to have strong leadership in place. Rwanda is applauded and ranked by regional and international partners for having a people-oriented leadership and governance system. This leadership plays a significant role by always aiming at adopting and implementing strategies that promote healthy living among citizens, provide a favourable environment, influence and motivate the medical workforce to improve and positively contribute to the success of the healthcare system. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Rwanda set the example of how to manage a pandemic and safeguard public health.
In 2016, the government of Rwanda started a monthly mass sport dubbed as Car Free Day (CFD) with the aim of promoting healthy living and well-being in the city. During this unique activity, the main roads are closed to motorized vehicles and used only for physical activities. Following this, participants gather for an aerobic session while others go for a voluntary checkup of the NCD risk factors. Since the inception of CFD in Kigali, the number of leaders (high level officials, local government and the general population) attending this program have been increasing, demonstrating political commitment towards the fight against NCDs in the country and towards the sustainability of the program. This platform has also been used to deliver key health messages and call for action to the community, increasing their involvement in health promotion.
Since 2017, the president of Rwanda H.E Paul Kagame and first lady Jeannette Kagame have been participating in the Car Free days at different occasions and this has encouraged more city residents and visitors to take part in sports activities. In his remarks to the participants H.E Paul Kagame said “This is not just about having fun, it is also about living a healthy life. Let’s continue to uphold this practice. Good and healthy living also contributes to building our country”. The president recommended a scale up plan and an increase of the frequency so that many citizens would benefit from the car free day. The number of participants has been growing since then, and itinerary roads have been extended to four different sites in the city of Kigali. Other districts out of kigali have been implementing car free days with frequent participation from leaders and this represents more motivation to work hard as we must sustain these efforts in our country.
“I will forever cherish that unforgettable memory stamped in my mind when I hold a one on one talk with the President of the republic of Rwanda during Car Free Day."
Alphonse M
The Car Free Day initiative has significantly impacted Rwanda and beyond, influencing various initiatives such as the development of the National NCD Strategic Plan 2020-2025, the School Sports Policy, UHC reforms, and the Workplace Wellness Program. Additionally, it played a role in attracting the 4th Global NCD Alliance Forum to Rwanda. During the forum, through their participation in the CFD, delegates and other officials will have the opportunity to emphasize the need for increased physical activity to improve well-being and accelerate progress towards the UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs in 2025.
