Around 300 Rwandans and friends of Rwanda in China gathered in Wuhan, the capital of Hubei Province in central China, on August 2 to celebrate Umuganura. Umuganura, Rwanda's national harvest day celebrated on the first Friday of August, stands out as the only traditional event officially recognised on the national calendar, highlighting its deep cultural and historical significance. ALSO READ: PHOTOS: Minister Habimana reaffirms relevance of Umuganura at national celebration Celebrated annually since its reinstatement in 2011, Umuganura carries the theme this year: Isoko y’ubumwe n’ishingiro ryo kwigira, which loosely translates to A source of unity and foundation for self-reliance. The event in Wuhan coincided with Meet Rwanda in China, a flagship event designed to showcase Rwanda’s progress, with a main focus on the immense investment opportunities, promoting Made in Rwanda products, tourist attractions, and cultural exchanges. ALSO READ: Rwandans in Zambia, India celebrate Umuganura The celebration served as a moment of reflection on achievements, renewal of long-term commitments, and a celebration of unity and patriotism rooted in Rwandan values. In his address, Rwanda’s Ambassador to China, James Kimonyo, emphasised that Umuganura is not only a time to share and celebrate accomplishments, but also to set goals for the coming year. ALSO READ: The history of Umuganura: Rwanda’s festival of unity and gratitude He called on Rwandans to uphold the values embodied in the festival, including hard work, unity, patriotism, and the rejection of divisionism. The celebration featured traditional Rwandan meals, the symbolic serving of milk to children, recognition of outstanding students, and cultural performances, including the naming of cows, poetry, and music. Renowned cultural troupe Ishyo, alongside artistes including Intore Masamba, entertained the participants with traditional music and dance. Rwandan storytelling, ibisakuzo (riddles), and traditional games like igisoro featured prominently in the programme, along with sports competitions aimed at strengthening community ties. Youth engagement was a central focus, reflecting the demographic makeup of the Rwandan Community in China (over 95 percent), the majority of whom are students.
