On Friday, August 22, the City of Kigali launched the 4th edition of the Kigali Youth Festival, revealing that this year’s focus will extend beyond awarding winners to fostering outstanding talents into sustainable opportunities.
The two-week Kigali Youth Festival, running at Imbuga City Walk until September 5, is themed “Impano zibyara amahirwe” or “Talents that create opportunities.” The festival aims to attract hundreds of young people, artists, and attendees from across Rwanda, offering a platform for participants to showcase talents in music, dance, sports, and creative arts, alongside developmental discussions and exhibitions.
The launch featured performances from youth of various age groups, with appearances by DJ Briane and rapper Bushali. Traditional dances, karate displays, and modern performances set a vibrant tone for the event. Martine Urujeni, the Vice Mayor of Kigali for Socio-Economic Affairs, shared that this year's festival will not only recognize winners but also support them in partnership with the National Youth Council to further develop their skills.
“We’ve invested in talent detection to help youth identify and grow their abilities,” Urujeni said. “The enthusiasm has grown each year, and this time, in collaboration with the National Youth Council, we’ll help winners turn their talents into real opportunities.”
She emphasized the importance of parental support, urging families to encourage their children to engage in the festival’s activities, which foster values like patriotism, hard work, and respect.
The festival will feature exhibitions of youth-led projects, dance and sports competitions, volleyball tournaments, plays, and discussions on cultural values. Participants view the festival as a gateway to their dreams. Gisele Niyokwizerwa, 17, from Rwamagana, shared her excitement, hoping the exposure would help her grow as a dancer.
“This is my first time attending, and I hope it will take my talent beyond borders,” she said.
Artist Kevin Ishimwe from Nyarugenge also sees it as a rare opportunity, not just for showcasing skills, but proving to parents the lasting benefits beyond entertainment.
Eric Hakizimana, performing with Kabuga Kids, expressed confidence in their performances and the opportunity to show what they can achieve as a team.