The City of Kigali unveiled the 4th edition of Kigali Youth Festival, on Friday, August 22, announcing that this year it will go beyond awarding winners to ensuring that outstanding talents are nurtured into sustainable opportunities. ALSO READ: Seven things to know about proposed youth investment fund The two-week festival, taking place at Imbuga City Walk until September 5, is held under the theme “Impano zibyara amahirwe,” loosely translated as “Talents that create opportunities.” It is expected to draw hundreds of young people, artists and revellers from across the country. Participants will showcase their abilities in music, dance, sports, and other creative expressions, while also engaging in developmental dialogue and exhibitions. ALSO READ: PHOTOS: Kigali Youth festival exhibition presents creativity, innovation The launch featured performances by youth of different age groups, alongside appearances by DJ Briane and rapper Bushali. Traditional dances, karate displays, and modern performances set the tone for what promises to be a vibrant festival. Speaking to The New Times, Martine Urujeni, the Vice Mayor of the City of Kigali in charge of Socio-Economic Affairs, said this year’s edition is distinct because winners will not only be recognized but also supported in partnership with the National Youth Council to further develop their skills. “We have invested efforts in talent detection to help young people identify and grow their abilities,” Urujeni explained. “The enthusiasm has been evident in past editions, with participation increasing each year. This time, in collaboration with the National Youth Council, we will accompany the winners beyond the stage, helping them turn their talents into real opportunities.” She stressed the importance of parental involvement, urging families to encourage their children to participate. “Young people are on their annual holidays, and instead of remaining idle at home, they can use this platform to learn, connect, and grow,” Urujeni said. “Parents should see this as a valuable opportunity for their children to engage in positive activities that instill values such as patriotism, hard work, and mutual respect.” ALSO READ: Umushyikirano enters Day II with focus on youth, national unity The festival will include exhibitions of youth-led projects, traditional and modern dance competitions, sports tournaments such as volleyball and plays and skits, and discussions on cultural values. The participants said the festival represents a gateway to their dreams. Gisele Niyokwizerwa, 17, from Rwamagana District, who is a member of a dance crew called Future Kids, expressed her excitement. “It is my first time attending the festival, and I hope this exposure will help me grow as a dancer and take my talent beyond borders,” Niyokwizerwa said. ALSO READ: Gen Rwivanga on why youth need to live by values Kevin Ishimwe, an artist from Nyarugenge, echoed similar hopes. “This is a rare opportunity, and we are ready to embrace it fully, not only to showcase our skills but also to prove to our parents that such platforms benefit us far beyond entertainment,” he said. Eric Hakizimana, performing with Kabuga Kids, was equally optimistic. “We are confident in our performances and determined to stand out. The festival will be a great opportunity to show what we can achieve as a team,” he said.
