Editor,

Re: "Minister Uwacu hails cultural galore, says ‘ Igitaramo ‘ reflects glow in Rwandan values” (The New Times, December 7).

It is without any doubt that culture and tourism complement each other in the development process. In fact, there are many ministries, worldwide, that have clubbed the two activities under one and the same ministry.

As Julienne Uwacu, the Minister of Sports and Culture, very rightly remarked: "Our culture represents our country and we should be proud of it”, I do believe that not only are Rwandans proud of their rich cultural heritage, but so are Friends of Rwanda who promote this concept whenever possible.

The Nyanza Twataramye Cultural Festival could well inspire other similar events in different parts of the country.

Alphonse Murisa, the Director General, Institute of Natural Museums of Rwanda, highlighted the fact that Nyanza is a unique name.

The manner in which cultures are preserved does send a clear message to one and all that much inspiration could be derived from various initiatives, the recently concluded festival being one of them.

The budget allocation of Rwf 100 million also shows the importance being attached to developing and educating the people that such festivals are here to stay.

The theme "Taking culture to the future generations” is most appropriate, because youth at times want to be modern and trendy without laying stress on cultural heritage.

Clarence Fernandes