The highly anticipated Kigali Auto Show took place on Saturday, saw a fair turn up of revelers who seemed eager to see vintage and luxury automobiles.
Although contrary to the previously announced poster of 100 cars, the approximately 30 vintage cars that were displayed served as a great depiction of the saying "old is gold.” Featuring fine looking beetles, G-wagons and other car models whose owners were intent on showcasing their skills at the stadium, alongside quite a number of motorbikes.
Taking place in the city outskirts at Gahanga Cricket Stadium, the Kigali Auto show was set to begin at 11am to 10pm, featuring a variety of performances and outdoorsy activities, to pair with an innate celebration and exhibition of vintage cars.
The early beginnings of the car show kicked off at exactly 5:30 pm and did not last long. The majestically built cars and a couple of motorbikes indulged in driving around the stadium, leaving an array of dust in their wake, which was all aesthetically pleasing, save for the air pollution.
The vehicular display made haste in anticipation of nightfall, and resumed again after dark, however at that point the entertainment aspect of the show was heavily watered down, the DJ sets of DJ Tyga and DJ Pyfo were yet to begin, and the wait between dusk and dark diluted the show’s appeal considering it was a very futile environment to be in at the time, which speaks to the poor coordination and organisation of the event.
"This is not what I expected when I came here, but the vibe is good” said one of the revelers, at a time when a scarcity of activities left people to socialize on their own.
Another highlight of the event was socialite Sheila Gashumba’s spontaneous arrival. She was to host the event alongside Naomie Nishimwe, Miss Rwanda 2020 and her arrival was momentous because Gashumba’s first activity was to jump on a motorbike for a photoshoot, then later for a ride around with what seemed to be an interesting driver.
Classic car shows typically involve the display of automobiles considered to be of value based on their history, age and appeal, in celebration of their antiqueness, similar to how antique art is revered.