Africa-Press – Rwanda. Rwanda’s Ambassador to Kenya, Martin Ngonga, emphasized the significance of culture to individuals and communities, reminding Rwandans in Kenya that culture has been a cornerstone of their home country since ancient times.
Ngoga made these remarks during the ‘Rwandaful Cultural Night Programme’ event on Friday, March 8, in Nairobi, Kenya.
The event aimed to showcase Rwanda’s rich culture to the audience, especially Kenyans, providing them with a firsthand experience of Rwandan identity.
The program included traditional music and dances by Intayoberana troupe, modeling by Rwandan youth in Kenya, and poetry performances.
In his speech, Ambassador Ngoga highlighted, “Culture defines who we are as individuals and communities, encompassing our traditions, norms, beliefs, values, and artistic expressions. It serves as a bridge that connects people across borders and generations.”
Ngoga added, “cultural celebrations like these remind us of the many things we share as Rwandans and how we can use them to strengthen our unity and understanding.”
The ambassador said that with the Rwandan community in Kenya, such events offer a platform to showcase their culture’s beauty and uniqueness while highlighting the connections that unite us with our Kenyan siblings.
“Culture has been a cornerstone of Rwanda since ancient times. Through plays, dances, music, and cultural festivities, Rwandans would gather, celebrate their similarities, address challenges, and shape their shared future,” Ngoga expressed.
Nadine Umutoni, Vice-Chair of the Rwandan Community in Kenya, highlighted the importance of showcasing Rwanda’s positive aspects beyond the tragic history of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
She said, “When people think of Rwanda from outside, they often focus on the dark history of the Genocide against the Tutsi. However, we have so much more to offer, including our vibrant culture.”
Umutoni also highlighted the significance of reconnecting with Rwandan traditions through traditional music and dances, especially for community members who have been away from Rwanda for an extended period.
“The goal was also to attract investors to Rwanda through such events, noting the presence of current and potential investors at the gathering. The plan is to host similar events annually to continue promoting and celebrating Rwandan culture,” she said.
Ruth Kabera, a Rwandan youth studying in Kenya, shared her experience at the event, expressing how it made her feel like she was back home.
She said, “This cultural gathering truly gave me a sense of being back in Rwanda. It brought together Rwandans from all walks of life, and I must say, it was an unforgettable event filled with captivating traditional music and dances. It really showcased the pride we have in our Rwandan identity.”
Kabera also expressed her desire for the event to become an annual tradition, emphasising the importance of continuing to learn about and celebrate her culture while fostering unity among the Rwandan community in Kenya.
In his speech, the ambassador also noted that, “in present-day Rwanda, culture remains a vital foundation that has inspired many of the country’s transformative initiatives, especially in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.”
Notably, Kenyan government officials, including Dr. Alfred Mutua, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, and Ababu Namwamba, Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, were also in attendance at the event.
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