The inaugural edition of the “Kigali Triennial Festival,” a celebration of African arts and culture that intends to establish the Rwandan capital as a global cultural hub, will bring together over 200 artists from 25 different countries in Kigali from February 16–25.
Every three years, the Ministry of Youth and Arts will jointly organize the Kigali Triennial with the assistance of the Rwanda Arts Initiative, the City of Kigali, and other partners.
The event, themed “Where art, knowledge, and economy converge,” aims to promote Kigali as a worldwide cultural hub, showcase dynamic artistic talent, and inspire international collaboration.
At a news conference on Monday, February 12, City Mayor Samuel Dusengiyumva said, “This festival coming to Rwanda demonstrates the country’s commitment to fostering arts.”
The government’s dedication to advancing youth development through the arts is demonstrated by the festival’s hosting, according to Sandrine Umutoni, Minister of State for Youth and the Arts.
“The Government of Rwanda acknowledges the vital role of arts in youth development and actively supports artistic endeavors such as the Kigali Triennial,” Umutoni stated.
“Art can be an important force capable of strengthening our national unity, while also acting as a catalyst for job creation, economic prosperity, and contributing to the overall enrichment of our society’s cultural heritage.”
According to Umutoni, the festival offers Kigali a chance to demonstrate the extent to which art can foster cross-cultural understanding. It presents a chance to forge solid international alliances in addition to showcasing Rwanda’s artistic offerings.
Several locations, including the Car Free Zone Center, Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (formerly Camp Kigali), Canal Olympia, Club Rafiki, and Cine Elmay (Mayaka), will host the first Kigali Triennial Festival.
A wide range of performances, exhibitions, and activities spanning music, dance, fashion, theater, film, gastronomy, and visual arts will be offered to the audience throughout the festival.
In addition to the performances by national and international artists, the Kigali Triennial Festival will provide conferences, master courses, and workshops for both the general public and cultural professionals.
Dusengiyumva urged city dwellers to attend in large numbers and explore the entertainment options the city has to offer while outlining the festival’s significance.
“We encourage city residents to show up in big numbers for performances that will take place and, given the variety of the schedule, we are confident they will discover something that suits them perfectly,” said Dusengiyumva.
The Kigali Triennial will improve Rwanda’s entertainment landscape in addition to bringing a vibrant atmosphere to Kigali. The City Mayor continued, “it is also anticipated to position Kigali as a hub for services and conferences as well as for entertainment.”