The Rwandan community in the United States, at the Rwanda Convention event held on July 5 in Dallas, Texas, announced a homecoming scheduled for August 2026, with members from 31 communities across 22 states preparing to reunite in Kigali.
Speaking in an X Spaces discussion hosted by The New Times, which explored how the diaspora contributes to efforts to preserve memory of the Genocide against the Tutsi, deepen civic engagement, and shaping the nation’s future, members of the Rwandan community in the US said the homecoming is about far more than just returning home.
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"When I say I’m from Rwanda, people often ask, ‘Wasn’t there a movie about Rwanda?’ That tells you where their minds go. The Genocide is etched in people’s psyche," explained Yehoyada Mbangukira, President of the Rwandan diaspora in the US.
"But bringing them to Rwanda opens up a whole new world, they could become investors, they could fall in love with the country.”
Homecoming isn’t just for Rwandans, he added. "It can expand our country’s footprint globally. I had a college friend who unexpectedly went to Rwanda and started posting about her trip. That inspired me to promote homecoming to our alumni group and suddenly, others became interested.”
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Many Rwandans living in Western countries have relocated seeking opportunity but maintain a deep love for their homeland, Mbangukira said.
Mbangukira acknowledged government support, saying that with local mobilisation and a collective voice, the homecoming can attract visitors to Rwanda not just for tourism but to reshape the country&039;s global image.
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Invest back home
Sheba Rugege Hakiza, the Executive Board Member of the US Rwanda Community Abroad (RCA) emphasised Africa’s rapid growth and investment potential. She noted Kigali’s rise as the continent’s second most popular meeting destination, thanks in part to its safety, cleanliness, and business-friendly environment.
"Rwandans in the diaspora already send over $500 million in remittances each year. But that’s just a starting point," said Hakiza. "We want to move beyond simply supporting family, we want to help people retire back home, invest in enterprises, and contribute meaningfully to national development.”
She noted that many in the diaspora hope to return home someday, and the homecoming helps show them they have opportunities to thrive in a familiar environment in their homeland.
"I grew up in an [Historically Black Colleges and Universities] environment where we saw educated, enlightened Black excellence. That gave us hope. Homecoming can give Rwandans in the diaspora, and even our friends around the world, the same hope.”
She noted that across Africa, $46 billion in remittances is being invested in key sectors such as ICT, healthcare, and innovation. calling it an opportunity to build partnerships and support youth-led businesses.
Amanda Ngarambe Isaro , a Rwandan student in the US, said Rwanda is already doing a great job engaging young people into national life.
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"Even here in the diaspora, events like the Rwanda Convention and the upcoming homecoming provide excellent opportunities to keep young people involved, not just as attendees, but as planners, participants, and leaders,” she said.
"It starts by building strong communities through our local communities. When people feel like they belong, it’s much easier for them to engage. That sense of belonging is key to empowerment.”
Isaro urged the youth to recognize their role in Rwanda’s future, emphasising that, as the majority population, they must actively lead the next chapter of development, building on the legacy of those who liberated the country.