Rwanda: Angolan Delegation to attend Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative Launch in Kigali

Angolan delegations are among the international guests expected at the Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative launch in Kigali on January 27, 2024. The vibrant Park Inn Hotel in Kigali’s downtown will host the “Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative” project launch and Rwandan cultural celebration on the aforementioned date.

The first-ever event of its kind, organized by Ikirenga Art and Culture Promotion in partnership with various stakeholders, including UNESCO and the Angolan Embassy, will be a prestigious gathering of diplomats, government officials, and delegates from various nations.

The Angolan Embassy and Ikirenga Art and Culture Promotion have a long-standing partnership that is at the forefront of this significant convergence. Consistently supporting Ikirenga’s initiatives, the embassy has shown that it is committed to fostering innovative partnerships and cross-cultural learning in Rwanda.

UNESCO has approved the Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative, which is the outcome of an insightful research project. Under the direction of Mr. Peter Hakizimana, CEO of Ikirenga Art and Culture Promotion, this project intends to present the findings of a comprehensive analysis of Rwanda’s creative sector.

Speaking exclusively to INTO RWANDA, Mr. Hakizimana expressed his excitement about the impending revelation.

“We are about to reveal research we recently conducted in the creative industry of Rwanda, sponsored by UNESCO. We believe that the stakeholders and different partners in the Rwandan creative industry will learn a lot from this and help curate strategies to boost growth in this sector,” he said.

The study digs deeply into the complex realm of Rwandan artistry, examining the cultural origins of traditional dance, the subtleties of regional traditional artistry, and the mutually reinforcing relationship between creativity and tradition.

With UNESCO’s backing, the initiative not only underscores the significance of preserving cultural heritage but also emphasizes the role of the creative industry in shaping Rwanda’s identity on a global stage.

As the event unfolds at the ParkInn Hotel, attendees can expect a captivating showcase of Rwandan traditional dance troupes, local traditional artists, and a delectable dinner highlighting the richness of Rwandan cuisine. The ambience promises to be a melting pot of cultures, fostering an environment where the exchange of ideas and experiences flourishes.

The Angola Embassy’s presence adds a diplomatic touch to the affair, symbolizing the unity and mutual respect that transcend borders through artistic expression. Their attendance not only signifies support for Ikirenga Art and Culture Promotion but also echoes the shared belief in the transformative power of art.

“This is a first-of-a-kind event in Rwanda, and we want to extend our sincere gratitude to our partners, including the Angolan Embassy, for being part of our journey and supporting the creative sector in Rwanda and beyond. Your unwavering support and commitment are a strong pillar of our work, and we are truly grateful,” said Hakizimana.

In this synergy of collaboration, the Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative stands as a testament to the harmonious relationship between the Angola Embassy and Ikirenga Art and Culture Promotion, demonstrating how diplomacy and the arts can intertwine to create a cultural symphony that resonates far beyond the borders of Rwanda.