Category: Arts & Culture

Envisioned and developed as a premier cultural tourism district and resort area, Luyuan Village spans a substantial 370,000 square meters, demonstrating the scale and ambition of this undertaking.

The core objective of Nishan Luyuan Village is to vigorously promote Confucianism and offer visitors a comprehensive and immersive cultural experience. This is achieved through a carefully curated blend of architectural attractions that evoke traditional Chinese aesthetics and resonate with the Confucian era, alongside a rich program of cultural performances designed to bring the teachings, arts, and traditions associated with Confucius to life.

This is where my journey started, in the place where Confucius was born more than 2,500 years ago. As I explored the place, I began to see how his teachings—about respect, family, and learning, are still influencing people today, even as far away as Rwanda.

Just across from Luyuan Village lies Mount Ni, also known as Nishan. This mountain holds deep cultural significance as it is traditionally considered the birthplace of Confucius.

According to historical records, Confucius’s parents prayed at Mount Ni for a child, and shortly thereafter, his mother gave birth to him.

Mount Ni is home to several historical sites, including the Confucius Cave, where, according to legend, Confucius was born. The area also features ancient temples and academies dedicated to Confucian teachings.

From there, I visited Nishan Sacred Land, a large cultural park built to celebrate Confucius’ life and ideas. The University Hall stood tall and quiet, while the Hall of Benevolence, a space for reflecting on Confucian virtues, shimmered with golden phoenixes on the ceiling—symbols of virtue and renewal.

I walked through a hallway filled with clay statues of Confucius’ students. Each had a story: Yan Hui, who found joy in simple things; Min Sun, who deeply respected his parents; and Zizhang, known for honesty and self-control.

In the Hall of New Learning, an educational and interactive exhibition space within Nishan Sacred Land, I discovered the “Six Arts” that young people in Confucius’ time were taught: music, writing, archery, charioteering, math, and rituals. These weren’t just skills—they were lessons in living with balance and self-discipline.

As I stood there, I remembered conversations I’d had back in Kigali with Rwandan students learning Chinese. Some of them speak about Confucian values like respect, hard work, and humility the same way these ancient students might have.

The Confucius Institute in Rwanda opened in 2009. At first, only a few students signed up—many thought learning Chinese was too difficult. But over time, interest grew. Today, nearly 20,000 Rwandans have learned Chinese through the Institute. For them, it’s not just about the language—it’s also about building bridges between cultures and learning values they can apply in their own lives.

Later in my trip, I went to Qufu, the hometown of Confucius. There, I visited the Confucius Temple, a peaceful place with red pillars and a golden roof. Under the shade of old trees, I listened to stories about ancient ceremonies and how they were meant to teach gratitude and social harmony—not just to honor the past.

Nearby, I toured the Kong Family Mansion, where Confucius’ descendants lived for centuries. Inside, I saw how his teachings helped guide not just personal behavior, but even the laws of emperors and the running of governments.

Back in Kigali, celebrations for United Nations Chinese Language Day echoed this cultural exchange. This year’s theme, ‘Chinese Language: A Gift Across Time and Space,’ was a reminder of just how far this ancient language has traveled and how deeply it’s being embraced in places like Rwanda.

Zeng Guangyu, director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Rwanda, recently told Xinhua that Chinese language skills have opened doors for Rwandan learners, enabling them to secure jobs, win scholarships, study in China, and even start businesses.

I realized that Confucius’ legacy is not confined to stone monuments or ancient texts. It’s alive in classrooms, in conversations, and in the dreams of young people who are using language not just to speak, but to connect, to grow, and also to build a future across cultures.

Though I did not understand the lyrics, the harmony and rhythm spoke to my soul. The Grand Song of Dong is a mesmerizing a cappella folk tradition that has endured for over 2,500 years.

Originating from the Dong people of China’s Guizhou Province, this unique choral art form was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009.

Unlike conventional choral performances, the Grand Song of Dong requires no conductor or instrumental accompaniment. Instead, it masterfully blends multiple vocal parts to recreate sounds of nature, labor, love, and history.

The Dong people, an ethnic minority group with a rich cultural heritage, have historically relied on music to preserve their traditions.

Without a written language for much of their history, they passed down knowledge, moral values, and communal wisdom through songs. This makes the Grand Song more than just an artistic expression. It is a living repository of the Dong people’s history and way of life.

At the concert, each performance seemed to capture a different facet of Dong culture. Some songs mimicked the chirping of birds and the whispering wind, reinforcing the group’s deep connection with nature.

Others conveyed emotions of love, friendship, and collective memories. The seamless blend of voices created an auditory experience so rich and immersive that it felt like stepping into a different world.

Liping County, often referred to as the “capital of Dong Township,” plays a central role in preserving and promoting this tradition. The Liping Grand Song of Dong Ethnic Group (LPGS), established in 1972, has been instrumental in showcasing Dong music on global stages.

The ensemble has performed in France, Italy, Russia, and beyond, earning international acclaim. The influence of the Grand Song extends beyond traditional folk circles.

LPGS has collaborated with prominent artists, including Belgian pianist Jean François Maljean and celebrated Chinese musicians. Their performances at prestigious events, such as the 2008 Olympic Games and the 10th International Choral Festival in Vienna, underscore the global significance of this musical heritage.

As the concert drew to a close, I found myself wishing for more. Though it lasted nearly two hours, the performance felt fleeting, a testament to the captivating nature of the Grand Song of Dong.

Fortunately, I left with more than just memories. I had captured short videos and photos, preserving the magic of the evening. Experiencing this extraordinary tradition firsthand reaffirmed the timeless power of music to connect people across cultures.

The Grand Song of Dong is not just an art form; it is a bridge between past and present, between tradition and modernity. And for one unforgettable night, I was fortunate enough to walk across it

The exhibition hall showcases the Party’s history, achievements, and milestones through artifacts, documents, multimedia displays, and interactive exhibits. Located in Beijing’s Chaoyang District, near the Olympic Park, it stands as a testament to the CPC’s century-long journey.

Inside, visitors encounter an extensive collection of historical items and photographs, including rare Party documents, original manuscripts, and personal belongings of key leaders like Mao Zedong and Deng Xiaoping. Advanced multimedia technology enhances the experience, bringing history to life.

Beyond being a historical archive, the hall serves as an educational and patriotic site, reinforcing the Party’s legacy and development. It has become a key destination for Party members, students, and researchers.

A visit to the Museum of the Communist Party of China is a rare and unforgettable experience. Walking through its vast halls offers a deeper appreciation of the Party’s enduring influence.

Here are five fascinating facts about the museum:

1. The Largest Party History Museum in China

Spanning an impressive 150,000 square meters, the CPC History Exhibition Hall is the largest museum dedicated to a political party in China.

Unlike other historical museums that focus on isolated events, this hall presents a sweeping narrative of the CPC’s evolution. It chronicles defining moments such as the Long March, the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, and the country’s economic reforms in the late 20th century.

2. Over 2,500 Exhibits

Key exhibits include original documents from the First National Congress in 1921, marking the Party’s founding; relics from the Long March, such as weapons, clothing, and personal items used by Red Army soldiers; and Mao Zedong’s handwritten notes and speeches, including the declaration of the People’s Republic of China in 1949.

Others are records from China’s economic transformation under Deng Xiaoping, highlighting key policies of reform and opening up; and technological achievements, including China’s space program, high-speed rail development, and the Belt and Road Initiative.

3. A High-Tech Approach to History

While deeply rooted in historical narratives, the museum embraces cutting-edge technology to immerse visitors in the CPC’s past.

One of the museum’s most striking features is its use of cutting-edge technology to bring history to life. A 360-degree immersive theatre transports visitors into key moments of the past, from the intense battles of the Red Army to China’s groundbreaking first spacewalk.

Artificial intelligence narrators provide insightful commentary, offering deeper context and guiding guests through the Party’s historical milestones. Augmented reality reconstructions further enhance the experience, allowing visitors to engage with digital recreations of historical events.

This seamless fusion of history and technology makes the museum’s storytelling not only immersive but also particularly appealing to younger generations accustomed to digital interactions.

4. Symbolic Architecture

The CPC History Exhibition Hall stands as a symbolic structure, with every detail of its design reflecting the Party’s revolutionary spirit.

The architecture is laden with meaning, with each feature serving as a reminder of the Party’s enduring legacy. The striking red façade captures the essence of the Party’s revolutionary roots, while a massive golden hammer-and-sickle emblem underscores the CPC’s leadership role in shaping the nation.

A grand star-shaped dome, inspired by the Great Hall of the People, symbolizes national unity and strength. Inside, sculptures and murals of key CPC figures like Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, and Deng Xiaoping highlight their pivotal contributions to China’s development.

Central to the building, the main structure takes the form of the Chinese character “人” (ren), meaning “people,” symbolizing the Party’s steadfast commitment to serving the people.

5. Xi Jinping’s Personal Involvement

The establishment of the CPC History Exhibition Hall was personally overseen by President Xi Jinping, who stressed its importance in reinforcing Party unity and educating future generations. Beyond preserving history, the museum serves a political function, shaping narratives about the CPC’s legacy.

Before its official opening, Xi Jinping led a delegation of senior Party officials on a private tour, underscoring its significance. Today, the hall is a mandatory stop for Party cadres and students, reinforcing ideological training.

As Xi Jinping has frequently stated, “History is the best textbook.” The CPC History Exhibition Hall stands as a powerful instrument in preserving and promoting the Party’s vision for China’s future.

However, one experience stood out above the rest: my encounter with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), particularly acupuncture.

Traditional medicine is an integral part of every culture. In Rwanda, I have often heard about traditional healing practices, but I had never personally explored them. However, when I travel, I make it a point to experience new things firsthand.

So, when the opportunity arose to visit Beijing Massage Hospital, I knew I had to try acupuncture—one of the most renowned components of TCM.

Located in Beijing, Beijing Massage Hospital is a premier institution specializing in massage therapy, acupuncture, and rehabilitation.

Established in 1958, the hospital has built a stellar reputation for integrating TCM practices with modern rehabilitation techniques. It is particularly known for treating musculoskeletal disorders, neurological conditions, and chronic pain through methods such as tuina (therapeutic massage), acupuncture, and herbal medicine.

Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and relieve pain. While some people dismiss it as quackery, I was eager to judge for myself.

What made my experience even more interesting was that, on the morning of my visit, I woke up with a nagging pain in the upper right part of my back. Whether from poor posture or an awkward sleeping position, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to test acupuncture’s effectiveness.

Walking into Beijing Massage Hospital, I was immediately struck by its calm and orderly atmosphere. After a brief consultation, I was guided to an acupuncture specialist who assessed my condition and explained how the treatment could help relieve muscle tension and improve circulation.

As the session began, I felt a slight prick as five thin needles were inserted into targeted points on my back. Contrary to my expectations, there was no real pain—just a mild tingling sensation.

I lay still, breathing in the serene environment as the needles worked their magic. The entire process lasted about 10 minutes. While I wasn’t instantly cured, I felt a noticeable sense of relief and a soothing warmth where the needles had been placed.

Just before my session, a friend who accompanied me opted for a general health check-up using traditional Chinese diagnostic techniques. What I witnessed was nothing short of fascinating.

The doctor placed two fingers on her right wrist, closed his eyes briefly, and then asked her to open her mouth so he could examine her tongue. After only two minutes of assessment, he confidently diagnosed her with digestive issues, sensitivity to cold, and a need for more exercise.

To my amazement, my friend confirmed that all his observations were accurate. It was incredible to witness the precision of this ancient diagnostic method, which relied solely on pulse reading—a practice that has existed in China for thousands of years.

Beijing Massage Hospital offers a wide range of TCM treatments beyond acupuncture, including medical massage (tuina), moxibustion, rehabilitation therapy, and traditional Chinese medicine consultations, among others.

My experience at Beijing Massage Hospital was eye-opening and reaffirmed a saying in my native Kinyarwanda: “Buri gahugu n’umuco wako,” which means each country has its own culture and practices.

Located in the southeast of Beijing, Tongzhou is often referred to as the eastern gateway to the Chinese capital. With its strategic location at the northern end of the Grand Canal and the easternmost point of Chang’an Avenue, this district has transformed into a hub of administration, culture, and cutting-edge technology.

At the center of Tongzhou’s transformation stands the Beijing Municipal Administrative Center (BMAC), proof of the city’s vision for sustainability and green development.

This contemporary complex represents Beijing’s attempts to decentralize and ease traffic in its historic center.

As I strolled through the administrative center, I was astounded by how well it integrated eco-friendly architecture and cutting-edge urban planning with its surroundings.

The exhibits within the building narrate the remarkable story of Beijing’s growth, showcasing decades of urban evolution while staying rooted in its cultural identity.

Drifting through history on the Grand Canal

Leaving the administrative center, I set off for a boat ride on the Grand Canal, a moment that turned out to be both educational and deeply immersive.

As I sat on the upper deck, a chill from the air bit through my t-shirt, but I hardly noticed. The guide’s narration transported me centuries back to when this marvel of engineering was constructed.

Built over 1,400 years ago, the Grand Canal is the longest and oldest canal in the world, stretching over 1,700 kilometers and connecting Beijing to Hangzhou.

This waterway, once a lifeline for trade and cultural exchange, passes through different municipalities and provinces, facilitating the movement of goods and people for generations.

Listening to its history while gliding over its waters was an amazing experience.

A library like no other

From history to innovation, my next stop was the Beijing Library, a structure that left me fascinated the moment I walked in. Its stunning architecture, which was designed to mimic a mountain, is an example of how science and nature can coexist.

Stepping inside, I was overwhelmed by the sheer scale of its collection. Home to over 8 million books, including works by President Xi Jinping, the library attracts 10,000 visitors on weekdays and twice that number on weekends.

What fascinated me the most was the technology embedded within the facility. From AI-powered book-sorting robots to immersive digital reading experiences, the library represents the future of learning.

If it weren’t for my tight schedule, I would have spent an entire day exploring its many wonders.

The innovation hub of tomorrow

Beyond its cultural and historical sites, Tongzhou is fast becoming a hub for technology and new energy enterprises. Companies like Colorfulead, Bor Ewin Technology Co Ltd and Wisson are leading the way in green innovations and robotics.

As my day in Tongzhou came to an end, I reflected on what makes this district so unique. It is a place where history, nature, and technology intertwine to create something extraordinary.

Ishimwe Gad emerged as the winner in a competition inviting students to create artwork reflecting the FIA’s milestone as it celebrates its 120th anniversary.

He was announced as the winner during a cocktail reception at the Kigali Convention Centre on Thursday, December 12, 2024, hosted by President Paul Kagame.

Ishimwe’s artwork, a colourful and dynamic representation of motorsport’s vitality and heritage, will now hold a permanent place at the FIA’s headquarters in the historic Place de la Concorde in Paris.

The achievement elevates his creation to the ranks of internationally acclaimed pieces that celebrate the rich history and promising future of motorsport.

“This is a dream come true,” Ishimwe remarked. “To have my work displayed in Paris alongside other renowned artists is an honour, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent Rwanda on a global stage.”

The art competition was one of several initiatives tied to the FIA’s anniversary celebrations, blending motorsport and art to promote cultural exchange.

Thursday’s event brought together FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, members of the FIA World Motor Sport Council, and motorsport enthusiasts from around the world.

Adding to the evening’s significance, attendees witnessed the unveiling of the first-ever FIA Level 2 Affordable Cross Car produced in Africa. The innovative project was developed through collaboration between Rwandan polytechnic students, the FIA, and the Rwanda Automobile Club.

The “Cross Car” is a compact, specialized vehicle equipped with critical features such as a protective racing seat, reinforced safety structures, race-specific tires, and a unique design to protect drivers in case of accidents.

Its safety elements include a six-point harness system and a window opening for easy entry and exit. The vehicle operates with a manual transmission and requires specialized skills and training, as it differs significantly from regular rally cars.

Dutch-Belgian Formula One champion Max Verstappen will test the car.

In his address, President Kagame emphasized the importance of promoting innovation and encouraging young talent in Africa.

“Young people everywhere on the continent, in different fields of sport, show up in large numbers, but they are limited by access to opportunity. I appreciate that the message is loud and clear: instead of Africa exporting talent all the time to other places, it can also be bred, grow, and be seen to stay in Africa,” President Kagame said.

The 2024 FIA General Assembly in Kigali is set to conclude on Friday, December 13, 2024, with an awards ceremony where key figures such as Verstappen will be honoured.

A research conducted by the Institute of National Museums of Rwanda (INMR) in 2006 revealed that Rwanda had more than 530 heritage sites. Since the research was conducted about two decades ago, several reforms have been implemented with the aim of better positioning the national heritage sites.

These changes include the merger of INMR with the Rwanda Academy of Language and Culture and Rwanda Archives and Library Services to form the Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy (RCHA) in 2020.

Today, the expanded mandate of RCHA includes conserving the sites and collaborating with the private sector to capitalize on opportunities presented by Rwanda’s culture, history, and national heritage to promote the national economy through tourism activities.

With the rise of initiatives such as the Visit Rwanda campaigns, the historic sites in Rwanda continue to witness an influx of tourists who are eager to learn about Rwanda’s history.

This is a highlight of some popular destinations in Rwanda that offer invaluable insights into the country’s rich history, culture, and resilience.

King’s Palace Museum

Located in Nyanza district, Southern Province, the King’s Palace Museum offers a captivating glimpse into Rwanda’s monarchial history. This reconstructed palace beautifully replicates the traditional beehive-shaped dwelling of Rwanda’s former kings.

The museum compound is home to a herd of Inyambo cattle, descendants of the king’s prized livestock. These long-horned cattle, originating from the Ankole breed, were integral to royal ceremonies, adorned with lavish jewellery, and trained to follow commands.

While Rwanda transitioned from a monarchy to a republic in 1962, the preservation of Inyambo cattle continues under the care of the Rwanda Agriculture Board.

Visitors can explore the replica palace, gaining insights into royal life, customs, and governance. The museum also houses artifacts and exhibits that delve deeper into the history of the Rwandan monarchy.

The Ethnographic Museum

The Ethnographic Museum, formerly the National Museum of Rwanda, is located in Huye district in the Southern Province.

The museum was built with help of the Belgian government and opened its doors to the public in 1989. It is a rich source of information on the cultural history of Rwanda.

The museum features seven galleries that showcase a diverse range of historical, ethnographic, artistic, and archaeological artifacts, complemented by visual aids to provide visitors with an in-depth understanding of Rwandan culture.

The exhibits begin with displays on geographical and geological aspects, then artifacts related to hunting, agriculture, animal husbandry, pottery, weaving, and woodwork. The museum also highlights traditional clothing, architectural techniques, and the social significance of cattle.

In the final gallery, visitors can explore traditional customs and beliefs, as well as Rwandan history, culture, poetry, oral traditions, and cosmology.

Environment Museum

Located in Karongi district the periphery of Lake Kivu in the Western Province. This is the first environmental museum on the African continent.

The museum spans two floors and features a traditional herbal medicine garden on the rooftop. It displays herbal plants used to treat various illnesses, including sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhoea.

A large portion of the museum is dedicated to educating both domestic and foreign tourists on the significance of a sustainable environment and how they can contribute to it.

Rwanda Liberation Museum

The Rwanda Liberation Museum, also known as Umulindi w’Intwari, is located in Gicumbi District, Northern Province.

This historic site commemorates the Rwandan liberation struggle that culminated in the end of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It houses various artefacts, documents, and multimedia displays recounting the journey from pre-genocide events to the liberation struggle led by the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) and subsequent rebuilding efforts.

At the site, visitors can also explore the former command bunker (trench) of the then-RPF commander, who is now President Paul Kagame.

Museum for Campaign Against Genocide

Campaign Against Genocide Museum is housed within the Parliament building in Kigali.

The building was the epicenter of the liberation struggle and the museum was erected in its precincts to offer deeper learning of the political events that led to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

The museum tells the story of the Rwandan Patriotic Army’s 600-man battalion that was based at the Parliament to protect RPF-Inkotanyi dignitaries who were monitoring the implementation of the Arusha peace accord negotiated with Juvénal Habyarimana’s regime.

However, the implementation of the accord was interrupted after the shooting of President Habyarimana’s plane shortly before the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi which claimed more than a million lives.

The museum showcases the role of RPA in ending the Genocide and restoring peace.
It provides a comprehensive overview of the Genocide against the Tutsi, including its planning, execution, and aftermath.

Additionally, the museum emphasizes Rwanda’s journey towards healing and reconciliation. It serves as a stern reminder of the past and a catalyst for building a brighter future.

Rwanda Art Museum

Situated in Kigali, The Rwanda Art Museum is a vibrant cultural hub showcasing contemporary art from Rwanda and beyond.

Previously known as the Presidential Palace Museum, this unique space offers a glimpse into the dynamic world of Rwandan creativity.

The museum aims to foster appreciation for both traditional and modern art forms. It also serves as a platform for artists to connect and share their work.

Rwesero Art Museum

The Rwesero Art Museum, located in Nyanza district, stands as a unique cultural institution.
Originally constructed as a palace for King Mutara III Rudahigwa, it was repurposed into an art museum after the king’s untimely death before occupancy.

The museum houses a diverse collection of Rwandan art, showcasing the nation’s artistic talent and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore a range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and other creative expressions.

The museum’s location within a former royal palace adds a historical dimension, allowing visitors to appreciate the interplay between Rwanda’s past and present.

Kandt House Museum

The Kandt House Museum, situated in the heart of Kigali, offers a captivating journey through Rwanda’s rich history.

The museum is named after Richard Kandt, a German physician, explorer, and writer believed to be the first European to have thoroughly documented the geography and wildlife of Rwanda. The facility sits at his former residence.

A large section of the museum is dedicated to showcasing Rwandan life in all aspects – social, economic, and political way before and the colonial times.

A snake and crocodile exhibition at the facility is regularly held to help educate the general public about human-wildlife interaction.

Iby’iwacu Cultural Village

Located in Nyabigoma, Northern Province, Iby’iwacu Cultural Village offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Rwandan culture and traditions.

The village provides an authentic experience of rural Rwandan life, and many tourists flock to the site to share in the local people’s home and heritage treasures, including their lifestyles, activities, artefacts, and ways of living.

Ndaba Rock

Ndaba Rock is a captivating natural landmark located in Karongi district in the Western Province. The rock’s name is derived from a legendary tale of greed and misfortune.

It is believed that a man named Ndaba lost his life while attempting to retrieve honey from a cave inside the rock. The man’s demise gave the site its name and added to its mystique.

Beyond its mythical allure, Ndaba Rock offers stunning natural beauty, including cascading waterfalls and lush vegetation.

The scene was both vibrant and familiar. Some people carried baskets filled with gifts, a symbol of gratitude and communal sharing. The organizers seldom bring rounds of freshly boiled maize (a beloved traditional staple food), and crates of all kinds of drinks.

As we ate, discussions about the significance of the day revolved around how to honour our ancestors and the fruits of their labour, an appreciation and profound acknowledgement of the community’s collective efforts and the bounty provided by the land.

Anathalia Mukamusoni, a mother of three, dressed her family in colourful traditional attire, feels a growing sense of responsibility to welcome me and we strike a conversation. The significance of the day begins to take shape through the unfolding festivities and interactions.

She begins by explaining to me the depth of a communal spirit. She is so passionate about the government initiative of providing nutritious meals for children at school where parents are expected to take a leading role.

The genuine enthusiasm I encounter in her makes it clear that Umuganura is not only about celebrating the harvest but also about fostering community support for future generations.

Local leaders and the general public took to the microphone one by one sharing layers of insight into the day’s meaning. They explain that Umuganura is more than a feast; it’s a testament of unity and hard work.

“Together, we cultivate our fields, and together, we celebrate the fruits of our labour,” Pascal Niyigena, one of the village leaders proclaimed; words that resonated deeply with the the essence of communal achievement and solidarity.

People kept discussing dedication to community service, and quoted an ancient Rwandan proverb: “Umuhinzi n’umurinzi, ni bo bahesha igihugu ishema,” a phrase emphasizing the vital roles that farmers and protectors (such as soldiers, police, and other security personnel) play in upholding the pride and dignity of a nation through their hard work and dedication.

Others highlighted the value of diligence and security by working together and ensuring our safety, laying a strong foundation for future generations. These discussions further enriched my understanding of Umuganura’s broader significance.

As the day progressed, traditional dances and songs filled the air, celebrating Rwandan heritage and unity.

I watched Nyiransabimana’s children join the dances, and their laughter was a joyful testament to the occasion. The experience had evolved from mere observation to an immersive celebration of community values and shared heritage.

As the sun set, casting a serene twilight over my village home, the community gathering left a remarkable seal and a profound sense of connection and appreciation for the traditions that bind the community together.

My first physical attendance at Umuganura Day transformed my understanding of the event from a distant concept to a deeply felt experience.

Today, I sit with a heart full of gratitude and a newfound respect for the vibrant traditions that celebrate both the harvest and the strength of a community.

Born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 29 years ago, Luladey Takele Teshome has been captivated by the world of art since childhood. Over the years, she has developed a passion for telling unique stories through artistic cultural curation, aiming to inspire positivity in society.

Luladey moved to Kigali about six years ago, where she has continued to explore her creativity through various mediums, including painting, design, photography, and ink sketching. She is currently the Art Project Management Consultant at the British Council, after several years in Rwanda’s education sector.

IGIHE caught up with the sassy artist at the Mundi Centre in Kicukiro district, where she is showcasing a solo art project she has been working on over the last two years.

Luladey explains that the collection of artwork dubbed “Blue Circle” depicts her journey of discovery and rediscovery. The artwork conveys different emotions, aiming to inspire people to experience life as a full circle, embracing both lows and highs with optimism.

“The circle is the emotional circle – the growth that we are going through. Wherever we are today is not where we are going to be tomorrow. Sometimes you feel the peak, sometimes you feel the low, and sometimes you are just on the journey,” Luladey stated.

“There are pieces that are about my highs, the things that make me happy, the things that make me hopeful. And then there are lows that make me feel sad, vulnerable and lonely,” she added.

She explains that the blue colour is used to depict different emotions in her drawings and paintings having changed its identity over time.

“The blue colour has been associated with concepts such as tranquillity, stability, trust, loyalty, and spirituality. It’s often considered a calming colour, evoking feelings of peace and serenity,” she says.

Luladey’s exhibition at Mundi Centre features several paintings and 11 ink sketches.

She is passionate about one of the paintings titled “Blue Moon,” “A blue moon is something that comes once in a season. It signifies that whenever we experience peaks or lows, each moment is as present as you can be, and can only be lived once. If you’re sad about something once, you won’t be sad about the same thing at the same level every single time. It will shift over time.”

More than a hundred artists attended the first day of the three-day solo exhibition on Thursday, July 25, 2024.

The highly interactive session was more than just a moment to appreciate art; it was also a platform for artists from diverse backgrounds to network and challenge each other in pursuit of their dreams.

“I would want us as artists and the general public to give ourselves a challenge to overcome something we wanted to do but didn’t. We have the capacity to break that barrier in our way. So just lift that up and do what you said you will do,” Luladey said, citing her solo exhibition as a big win.

Artists Jackson Manzi and Carley Cyuzuzo lauded Luladey’s work and urged other colleagues in the industry who didn’t manage to attend the exhibition to take advantage of the remaining two days to learn something new from Luladey’s creativity.

“Any artist willing to come will learn something from her. She is a good artist – she’s really good at what she does. The message she’s giving out is good for anyone who wants to feel the love and feel free,” Cyuzuzo noted.

The exhibition continues on Friday, July 26, and Saturday, July 27, 2024.

Unlike Thursday’s exhibition, which was limited to invited artists, Friday and Saturday’s exhibitions will be open to the public.

The Friday session is scheduled to start at 11 am and run until 9:00 pm, while Saturday’s session will close at 5:55 pm.

The Saturday session will be special and will feature a talk between Luladey and another artist, Sophie, from 1 to 3 pm. Afterwards, the floor will open to a highly engaging session dubbed “create, critic, and connect.

Luladey’s captivating paintings and drawings will be available for acquisition throughout the three-day expo. Prices range from $251 to $940.