After a six-year pause, this highly anticipated convention is set to bring together over 1,500 Rwandans from across the globe, including members of the diaspora and guests from Rwanda.
The event is designed to celebrate Rwandan culture, promote unity, and explore opportunities for national development. The 2025 edition carries added significance as it coincides with Rwanda's 31st Liberation Day and U.S. Independence Day, making it a symbolic moment of pride and shared celebration.
The convention will serve as a vital platform for dialogue, collaboration, and reconnecting. It will feature networking events, business forums, and youth-centered activities aimed at strengthening community ties and encouraging diaspora engagement in Rwanda's development agenda.
According to organisers, the attention is particularly drawn on attracting businesses to present their services and products to the diaspora community and Rwanda's international allies, with the goal of fostering partnerships and driving new investment into the country.
Participants will have access to a wide range of government and private sector services, creating an environment that mirrors the convenience and community spirit found back home.
Institutions such as banks, government agencies, and representatives from the Private Sector Federation (PSF) are expected to be present, offering practical support and information to attendees.
The convention will also shine a spotlight on sports and youth engagement. A series of friendly gamesâ€"including basketball, football, and volleyballâ€"will take place, with participation from young Rwandans and former national team players now based in the U.S.
The sporting segment will include under-18 basketball matches, with standout players having the chance to represent the diaspora in the African Basketball Championship later this year in Kigali.
Cultural heritage will be front and center throughout the event. A showcase of Rwandan products, traditional music and dance, fashion, and historical exhibitions will offer attendees a rich cultural experience.
These efforts aim not only to preserve Rwandan traditions but also to educate younger generations about their roots and responsibilities in shaping Rwanda's future.
Entertainment will play a big role in the celebration. The convention will open with a Liberation Day concert featuring Intore Massamba, and continue with a Youth Night concert headlined by The Ben, supported by talented DJs and artists from the Rwandan-American community.
A closing prayer breakfast will be led by Apostle Paul Gitwaza, with popular artist Meddy leading worship.
While the event offers plenty of moments for joy and celebration, its deeper mission is to strengthen national bonds and encourage greater participation in Rwanda's growth.
With over $505 million in diaspora remittances recorded in 2024, the convention provides a timely platform to recognize the diaspora's contributions and inspire even more engagement.
Rwanda Convention 2025 is poised to be one of the largest gatherings of Rwandans outside the country, not only highlighting national pride and unity but also reinforcing the diaspora's critical role in building Rwanda's future.
IGIHE
