Why I love Rwanda’s culture.

Gone are the days when Rwanda’s elders were considered old-fashioned because they talked a lot about cultural values. Today’s younger generation is not left behind; they are catching up and are proud to have a culture that they identify with. This is what they had to say.

Monday, February 15, 2010

Gone are the days when Rwanda’s elders were considered old-fashioned because they talked a lot about cultural values. Today’s younger generation is not left behind; they are catching up and are proud to have a culture that they identify with. This is what they had to say.

Dress code
 "Whenever I see any one dressed traditionally in Mishanana and I am not, I don’t as smart as they are.”
Solange Ishimwe, 11, Kigali Harvest Primary School, P.5.

Music, Dance and Literature
"Different poems, traditional music and dance is what we Rwandans understand, enjoy and use to promote our culture. I am not as good as the professional dancers, but I love watching them dance and I am trying as much as possible to learn how to dance.”
Pamella Isimbi, 11, Kigali Harvest Primary School, P.6.

Cattle Keeping
"Keeping cattle is an aspect of our culture that I love because I love these animals so much. I love the milk from cows and the meat too.”
Olivier Nzamwita, 12, Kigali Harvest Primary School, P.6.

Esperance Ntawunozabino, the Headmistress of Kigali Harvest primary school said that both teachers and parents have the task of making children aware of their culture at school and in their home.

"Times should be allocated for cultural studies during school assemblies, cultural clubs to debate on different topics should be formed in all schools in order for children can understand and love the Rwandan culture,” she said.  

Ends