Author: Nicole Kamanzi Muteteri

This gathering, which highlighted Rwanda’s deep cultural traditions, was an opportunity to reflect on the significance of Umuganura, both in Rwanda’s past and present.

During his address, Ambassador Maj Gen Joseph Nzabamwita emphasized that Umuganura is far more than just a harvest festival. He explained that it is a centuries-old tradition that serves as a day of thanksgiving, where Rwandans express gratitude for their blessings and recognize the country’s achievements.

As the Ambassador noted, the festival has been celebrated at various levels—nationally, within communities, and in family settings—making it a truly unifying event for the Rwandan people. This was a moment for Rwandans in Russia to connect with their roots and embrace the cultural values of their homeland, even as they live abroad.

Looking back at the history of Umuganura, Amb. Nzabamwita shared that it dates back to the 9th century, making it a significant part of Rwanda’s cultural heritage. In the past, the King would preside over national ceremonies, while heads of families led the celebrations at the community level.

The Ambassador emphasized that Umuganura was a celebration of national unity, nationhood, and the vitality of Rwanda’s agricultural production, which has always been a cornerstone of the country’s identity. It was more than just a festival symbolizing a renewal of life and a strengthening of the nation’s agricultural foundation.

The envoy also reflected on the negative impact of colonialism on the celebration of Umuganura. He explained that during the colonial era, the Belgian colonialists abolished the festival in 1925 as part of a broader effort to dismantle Rwanda’s traditional social structures.

The colonial powers recognized that to maintain control, they needed to sever the cultural ties that bound Rwandans together, and Umuganura was one of the first traditions to be targeted. This disruption had a lasting effect on the celebration of Rwandan culture, even after Rwanda gained independence.

Following the liberation of Rwanda by the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF), Umuganura was revived as a key cultural event. Amb. Nzabamwita highlighted how the RPF’s leadership, upon bringing peace and stability to the country, recognized the importance of restoring the festival as a symbol of national renewal. In this way, Umuganura became a way for Rwandans to come together and celebrate their individual and collective contributions to the country’s progress.

The Ambassador explained that Umuganura today serves multiple important functions. Culturally, it preserves the ancient traditions and heritage of Rwanda in a rapidly changing world. Socially, it fosters national unity by bringing together people from all walks of life, creating a shared sense of identity.

Economically, it highlights the importance of agriculture, which remains a vital sector in Rwanda’s economy, employing 80% of the workforce and contributing significantly to the national GDP. Finally, politically, it reflects Rwanda’s sovereignty, self-reliance, and efforts toward food security, showing the country’s commitment to economic prosperity and independence.

Ambassador Nzabamwita concluded his address by stressing that Umuganura is not merely a harvest festival, but a testament to Rwanda’s resilience and its hopeful outlook for the future. He emphasized that it is a day of thanksgiving that unites Rwandans, celebrated alongside their friends and partners worldwide.

The event was especially enjoyable for the youth, who make up a large part of the Rwandan diaspora in the Russian Federation.

The celebration featured traditional Rwandan meals, cultural performance by the Diaspora Cultural Troupe “Imena Mu Nganzo”, and music performed by the Diaspora Music Band.

The company’s presence at the Expo is part of its broader mission to make service delivery faster, smarter, and more citizen-friendly—leveraging innovation to meet the evolving needs of users across Rwanda.

Patrick Gategabondo, the Chief Operations Officer (COO) at Irembo, highlighted that with the current season for community-based health insurance (Mutuelle de Santé) payments, Irembo is offering on-site assistance to help visitors complete their payments easily.

“We are here to make this process more accessible, especially during this period when many people are paying for their health insurance,” Gategabondo explained.

In collaboration with the National Identification Agency (NIDA), Irembo is also facilitating fast-track ID-related services for children and making corrections to personal information like names, birthdates, and photos—services that can now be completed in just three days.

Visitors to the booth are also guided on how to use the [IremboApp,->https://7847s.app.link/IremboApp_social_media] which provides access to a wide range of essential services—not limited to government services alone.

The [app->https://7847s.app.link/IremboApp_social_media] is available in Kinyarwanda, English, and French, and allows users to request documents like birth certificates, certificates of celibacy, and marriage records securely using a PIN code, fingerprint, or Face ID.

Additionally, users can pay for health insurance (Mutuelle), track their payment status, get real-time traffic fine notifications and pay instantly and save mobile wallet numbers (MTN MoMo or Airtel Money) for quicker transactions.

Irembo was recognized as the Best Exhibitor at EXPO 2024, a testament to its ongoing commitment to digital transformation and service excellence in Rwanda.

Rooted in the centuries-old Rwandan tradition of naming newborns, Kwita Izina was officially introduced in 2005 to celebrate Rwanda’s conservation achievements, engage communities, and inspire global awareness.

Over the past 20 years, Kwita Izina has become one of Africa’s leading events on conservation and sustainable tourism, attracting global icons, conservationists, and thousands of attendees annually. Since 2005, 397 baby gorillas have been named.

Last year, the event was postponed due to the Marburg outbreak in the country.

The theme for this year, “A legacy of community centered conservation, securing a sustainable future for all,” highlights the vital role of communities, rangers, and researchers in protecting Rwanda’s biodiversity.

Commenting on the development, RDB Chief Tourism Officer, Irène Murerwa, said: “We are excited to celebrate 20 years of Kwita Izina—a ceremony that has become a symbol of conservation, community, and culture in Rwanda. Thanks to the unwavering dedication and support of the government of Rwanda, partners and communities, the mountain gorilla population in the Virunga Massif has increased from 880 in 2012 to over 1,063 today. This success highlights the impact of community-based conservation and strategic partnerships.”

“Through initiatives like the Tourism Revenue Sharing Programme, which allocates 10% of tourism income back to local communities, we have improved schools, roads, and access to clean water. This demonstrates that when conservation benefits communities, nature thrives. As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our shared duty to protect biodiversity and create a sustainable future for generations to come,” she added.

{{Highlights of Kwita Izina 2025}}

To support the restoration of Volcanoes National Park, RDB, through the Rwanda Nature Foundation, will launch a crowdfunding platform on 6 September to raise funds for the restoration of Volcanoes National Park, ensuring a healthier, expanded habitat for the endangered mountain gorillas.

The platform will offer individuals and organisations worldwide a direct way to contribute to mountain gorilla protection and habitat restoration.

{{Community Recognition}}

As with every edition, this year’s ceremony will honour the local communities and rangers who continue to play a vital role in the survival of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.

Ahead of Kwita Izina, a smart green agricultural project will be launched in Musanze District as part of this year’s Tourism Revenue Share Programme, alongside additional donations to benefit communities living around Rwanda’s other national parks.

In celebration of this milestone year, a series of events will be held across the country to highlight conservation efforts, engage stakeholders, and showcase Rwanda’s natural beauty. The Kwita Izina 20 event calendar includes several significant activities, starting on August 29 with the launch of a community project in Kinigi, Musanze District.

From September 3 to 14, there will be familiarization trips across the country for international media and tour operators. On September 3 and 4, community sports activities and a concert will take place in Musanze.

The much-anticipated Mountain Gorilla Naming Ceremony will be held in Kinigi on September 5. On September 6, two events are scheduled: a golf tournament at the Kigali Golf Resort & Villas and the Conservation Gala Dinner in Kigali.

Since 2005, 397 gorillas have been named. Additionally, over Rwf 18 billion has been invested in more than 1,000 community projects through the Tourism Revenue Sharing Programme.

Kwita Izina continues to define Rwanda’s leadership in responsible tourism, blending tradition, innovation, and community ownership to protect the only species of great apes.

The aircraft, a Zlin-type plane, was on a training mission when it crashed, said the authorities in a statement.

The victims include two members of the Civil Protection force, a flight instructor from the Civil Protection Aviation School, and an aviation company manager, who was of Chilean nationality.

An investigation into the cause of the crash is expected to be launched.

This marked Ambassador Dombe’s first official visit to the Rwandan Senate, aimed at familiarizing himself with the institution and its operations.

Following the meeting, Senate President Dr. Kalinda stated: “We discussed the strong existing relations between Rwanda and Angola, which are founded on cooperation across various sectors. The two countries have signed multiple bilateral agreements in areas such as the economy, technology, education, and agriculture. We specifically emphasized the importance of implementing these agreements, with a particular focus on trade and investment.”

Rwanda and Angola maintain bilateral agreements in mining and diplomatic cooperation, and have also waived visa requirements for each other’s citizens, further strengthening ties.

Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Olivier Nduhungirehe, in November 2024, reaffirmed the growing partnership between the two nations.

He also commended Angola’s role in facilitating peace dialogues on the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and assured Rwanda’s continued collaboration with Angola to promote peace, security, and regional development.

The Commission’s trade spokesperson, Olof Gill, said the decision was adopted under an emergency procedure and will require formal approval by a simple majority of member states within two weeks. The tariffs were scheduled to take effect on Aug. 7.

“The Commission has today adopted necessary legal procedures to suspend the implementation of our European Union (EU) countermeasures,” Gill told a press briefing in Brussels, adding that the regulation would be published in the EU’s official journal later the same day.

Ahead of this announcement, there has been mounting criticism from key member states, including France and Germany. German Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil has expressed frustration at what he described as a “weak” negotiating stance by the EU during the trade talks with the United States.

“I think we were too weak. We can’t be satisfied with the result that was achieved,” Klingbeil said, referring to the agreement reached late last month between European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and U.S. President Donald Trump.

Under the deal, most EU imports to the United States will face a 15-percent tariff, while the bloc has pledged to purchase more American energy products and increase investment in the U.S. market.

Gill expressed surprise at Klingbeil’s remarks, noting that member states had been “fully briefed” and had supported a negotiated outcome to avoid tariff escalation.

The spokesperson said the suspension would remain in place for six months, during which implementation of the broader understanding would continue. If commitments are not met, Gill noted, the EU retains the right to reactivate its countermeasures. (1 euro = 1.16 dollar)

This financing agreement represents a major step forward in Rwanda’s industrial transformation agenda under Vision 2050, the country’s long-term development framework aimed at achieving high standards of living for all Rwandans through sustained economic growth, social transformation, environmental sustainability, and good governance.

Located just 10 kilometers from Bugesera International Airport and 50 kilometers from Kigali, BSEZ is strategically positioned to become a dynamic hub for light manufacturing, agro-processing, logistics, pharmaceuticals, and packaging.

By mobilizing local capital to fund early-stage infrastructure development, including internal roads, utilities, and site readiness, BK and BRD are turning a long-term vision into tangible progress.

A key highlight of this agreement is the inclusion of $10 million in green financing, offered at concessionary rates to support initiatives aligned with national sustainability and climate resilience objectives.

BSEZ spans 335 hectares and is being developed in phases. Phase 1, covering approximately 75 hectares, is already operational and hosts a growing number of regional and international manufacturers across light industry, agro-processing, and logistics.

It provides plug-and-play infrastructure, ready-to-use plots, and access to utilities, demonstrating the zone’s capacity to deliver on Rwanda’s industrial vision. The zone forms a cornerstone of Rwanda’s strategy to attract high-value investment, promote export competitiveness, encourage import substitution, foster local raw material transformation, and create sustainable jobs.

Commenting on the development, the Managing Director of BSEZ Arnab Bose, stated:
“Today marks a defining milestone as BSEZ achieves financial closure, reaffirming ARISE IIP’s commitment to Rwanda’s industrial future. With $52 million secured, $33 million from BK and $19 million from BRD, including $10 million in green financing. We are proud to partner with BK and BRD to catalyze inclusive, sustainable industrial development.”

Dr. Diane Karusisi, CEO of Bank of Kigali also expressed the bank’s pride in funding the project. “The Bugesera Special Economic Zone is a bold step toward realizing Rwanda’s industrial vision. At BK, we are proud to be part of this transformative journey. Financing a project of this scale is not just a demonstration of our confidence in its potential, but a testament to Rwanda’s growing ability to shape its own development path. We are honored to help turn this vision into reality,” she noted.

Kampeta Pitchette Sayinzoga, CEO of the Development Bank of Rwanda, added: “We are excited to be backing a project that ticks every box: it’s strategic, it’s sustainable, and it puts Rwanda’s people and potential front and centre. This is the kind of investment that moves the needle, not just for industrialization, but for inclusive and sustainable growth. We are proud to collaborate with BK and Bugesera SEZ Ltd. to deliver meaningful, long-term impact.”

As part of its commitment to green finance, BRD continues to champion climate-resilient investments through initiatives like Ireme Invest, which ensures that large-scale infrastructure projects like BSEZ are developed with environmental sustainability at their core. By integrating climate considerations into its financing decisions, BRD is helping to ensure that Rwanda’s industrialization is not only inclusive but also aligned with the country’s long-term climate goals.

{{About Bank of Kigali}}

Founded in 1966, Bank of Kigali is Rwanda’s largest commercial bank, serving over 1 million customers through an extensive branch network and digital channels. The bank is committed to fostering economic growth by providing innovative financial services to individuals, SMEs, and corporations. BK continues to evolve as a trusted partner in Rwanda’s journey toward a brighter, more prosperous future.

{{About the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD)}}

The Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD), established in 1967, has played a vital role in financing projects that advance national development, especially in manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, energy, affordable housing, green finance, and export growth. With a strong mandate to support Rwanda’s socio-economic transformation, BRD provides long-term, affordable, and tailored financing to sectors critical to national progress. It remains a key enabler of the National Strategy for Transformation and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

{{About Bugesera Special Economic Zone (BSEZ)}}

Bugesera Special Economic Zone (BSEZ) is Rwanda’s leading industrial hub. Formed in 2023 through a public-private partnership between the Government of Rwanda and ARISE IIP, BSEZ represents a $100 million investment. Strategically located 50 kilometers from Kigali and 10 kilometers from the new Bugesera International Airport, the 335-hectare zone offers serviced industrial land, world-class infrastructure, and direct access to regional and global markets.

Designed as a fully integrated ecosystem, BSEZ promotes sustainable manufacturing, raw material transformation, and export-led growth, contributing directly to Rwanda’s ambition of becoming a competitive, green industrial economy.

Ntahontuye was appointed just eight months after he was named Minister of Finance, Budget, and Planning.

His new role was officially confirmed by the Burundian Senate on the same day, shortly after it elected its new leadership, headed by Gervais Ndirakobuca.

Ntahontuye holds a master’s degree in statistics from the University of Burundi. He has worked in the fields of planning and research with several international organizations, including Care International, Oxfam, and the Global Fund, both within Burundi and across the region.

Before being appointed Minister of Finance in December 2024, Ntahontuye served as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee responsible for monitoring public resource management, finance, economic affairs, and national planning.