Ibihame by’Imana, the celebrated all-male cultural troupe, is poised to host its annual cultural festival ‘Mutarama Turatarama’, which aims to unite enthusiasts of Rwandan traditional music (Gakondo) for an immersive celebration of ‘Ubutore’ - a collection of Rwanda’s core value and ‘Guhamiriza’, the ‘warrior dance’.
The three-day festival, a first in Camp Kigali from January 19 to 21, in 2024 promises a fusion of cultural vibrancy and musical delight especially in Rwanda and across Africa.
Ibihame by’Imana was founded in 2013, by Aimable Bahizi, Olivier Burigo and Emery Igihangange, who were famed dancers from Indahemuka and Imena troupes back in the ‘90s.
The trio shared that the initiative came from their observation that Rwandan traditional dance was being diluted, and somewhat replaced by western dance genres. They then decided to form an all-boy dance troupe that would be a replica of Indashyikirwa, a royal dance troupe in Rwanda
ALSO READ: Ibihame by ’Imana gear up for ‘Rurasugiye’ concert
According to Edmond Cyogere, a dedicated member of Ibihame by’Imana, expressed enthusiasm for this event, highlighting its intent to establish a cherished tradition particularly ‘Ubutore’, and will be held each January.
He said: "The concept in ‘Mutarama Turatarama’ festival, will not change. Only the thematic content will be changing yearly. Gakondo fans anticipate something different from our usual shows.”
He noted: "We aspire for this festival to reach global recognition, starting solo initially, yet planning to involve like-minded individuals in the coming years. Our goal is to educate Rwandans about Ubutore, its essence, and what it means in Rwandan culture especially, those unfamiliar with it.
Cyogere explains that Ubutore, a Rwandan dance, symbolizes Rwanda’s culture and its military heritage, safeguarding the nation. ‘Intore’ could transform into a soldier, portraying how Ubutore embodies both the soldier’s heart and patriotism alike.
Notably, ‘Guhamiriza’ dance depicts passion, self-defense, and the preservation of secrets. It involves training in battle techniques, symbolizing Rwanda’s fighting spirit. Teaching Guhamiriza encompasses both dance and battle secrets, reflecting the heart of the struggle and the knowledge essential for defending the country.
ALSO READ: Ibihame by'Imana, Ruti and Impakanizi thrill fans at concert
The traditional front liner further said the display of Rwandan fighting techniques occurs through ‘Guhamiriza’ emphasizing moments like ‘Amacumu’ (spear), illustrates Rwandan history during the war and ongoing perseverance.
Guhamiriza distinguishes itself from mere dancing; it embodies the post-war narrative, vows to protect the country’s sovereignty, and victory celebrations after all.
"Historically, only children and women danced in Rwandan culture; colonization altered this, diluting the essence of the army’s heart in dance. ‘Guhamiriza’ should be done for a certain purpose not just for casual reasons,” he said.
"Our aim is to revive the army’s spirit, promoting civic education within ‘Ubutore’ emphasizing the responsibility to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.
We remind Rwandans of their ownership of the country and the significance of Itorero, the Rwandan school removed by colonialists. Post-colonial era calls for a reconsideration of ‘Itorero’ to instill its importance in every Rwandan, irrespective of their location,” he added.
Cyogere also said expanding the festival involves connecting Rwandan traditions with foreign cultures, fostering cooperation, learning, and healthy competition. The endeavor is to preserve African culture without blindly imitating foreign languages and practices.”
"Rwandan culture faces language interferences particularly among the youth. Real Kinyarwanda is now predominantly heard in songs, poems, and Itorero, distancing many from its essence,” he noted.