RWANDAN MUSIC and dance will illuminate San Francisco Marriott Marquis in the US this weekend, as local and Diaspora artistes entertain Rwandans and friends of Rwanda at the Rwanda Cultural Day, previously called Rwanda Day.

Slated for Saturday, guests at the annual event will be treated to an exciting array of traditional and modern music performances.

Local artiste who have made the line-up for the event include renowned traditional musicians Masamba Intore, Maria Yohana Mukankuranga, Jacques Murigande aka Mighty Popo, Jean-Marie Muyango and the National ballet ‘Urukerereza’.

 "As the theme says, it is a cultural day where Rwandans from all walks of life will meet and share experiences about our unique culture. As artistes, we hope to deliver messages through music and sketches that demonstrate our culture,” said Masamba.

He added that this will also be an opportunity to perform the songs from his latest album for folk music enthusiasts.

Other local artistes expected to perform include King James, Diana Teta, as well as US-based Rwandan singers Alpha Rwirangira and Meddy Ngabo.

Some of the artistes took to social media to express their gratitude for the opportunity to perform at the cultural event that will be graced by President Paul Kagame as the guest of honour.

"I am in San Francisco for this beautiful programme, and I will also perform. It is exciting and I can’t wait to be a part of it. See you there,” Teta wrote on her Instagram account.

The event is an opportunity to celebrate Rwanda’s unique culture and its role in transforming the country. Through various activities organised during the day, attendees will learn about the values that unite Rwandans and the home-grown solutions inspired by Rwanda’s culture that have become an integral part of solving the country’s challenges ranging from justice and reconciliation, poverty reduction and accountable governance. National newscaster, Rwanda Broadcasting Agency, will transmit the event live.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw