KIGALI - A heritage book that shows Rwanda’s past and present, was Friday launched by the Institute of National Museums of Rwanda.The book which was prefaced by President Paul Kagame, aims at increasing the awareness of the profound importance of the country’s natural and cultural heritage.

"This consideration is reflected through measures and acts taken, including the selection of cultural values to mark the four pillars of our development process in line with the vision 2020,” said the director of the National museums of Rwanda, Professor Celestin Kanimba during the book’s launch at Serena Hotel.

He noted that Ingando, Gacaca, Itorero, are traditional institutions that the Rwandan population has regained from the country’s culture rather than being imposed on them from outside.

He added that one of the missions of the institute of the National Museums of Rwanda is to disseminate the country’s heritage and related scientific aspects.

According to Kanimba, the book meets the expectations of visitors who were waiting for it for so long.

Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Culture and Sports, Joseph Habineza, said that every nation has to know its past.
 "Rwanda has a very rich culture that can be used as an income generator for the country,” the Minister said.

Habineza encouraged young Rwandans to always sell the country’s culture. He also said culture should be included in other aspects such as drama.

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