Since 2021, the Rwanda Youth Tour has brought together Rwandan youth living abroad for a two-week immersive experience that connects them with their roots while encouraging engagement in national development.
This year's delegation includes participants, mostly students, from the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Uganda, Senegal, Belgium, and Canada. For some, it is their first time visiting Rwanda, having either been born abroad or left at a young age.
The programme began with a guided tour of Nyandungu Eco Park in Kigali, following an official welcome by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MINAFFET) and the Ministry of Youth and Arts Development.
Speaking at the welcoming ceremony, Virgile Rwanyagatare, Director for Asia Pacific and the Middle East at MINAFFET, commended the participants' enthusiasm and sense of belonging.
'These are passionate young Rwandans who love their country and its history, and who are eager to contribute to its future. Rwanda is proud to welcome them homeâ€"to show them where the country stands today, where it has come from, and to educate them about the Genocide against the Tutsi. This journey helps them understand Rwanda's transformation and the role they can play in its continued progress,' he said.
Rwanyagatare also noted that since the inception of the Rwanda Youth Tour five years ago, diaspora youth have increasingly contributed to the country's development through academic pursuits, professional expertise, and investment initiatives.
Sandrine Umutoni, State Minister for Youth and Arts Development, underscored the importance of correcting misconceptions among diaspora youth.
'Many arrive believing they know Rwanda's history, but often lack the full picture, such as what triggered the Genocide against the Tutsi, how it was stopped, and how peace and unity were restored. Those who return more than once begin to grasp the foundational values of our nation: reconciliation, resilience, and inclusivity,' she said.
During the event, four participants shared their initial impressions and hopes for the tour, which focuses on exploring Rwanda's history, culture, and development journey.
Among them, Linnah Mukandori expressed her heartfelt connection to Rwanda, saying:
'I have missed my country so much. I missed speaking Kinyarwanda and hearing others speak it. I missed everything about Rwanda, and that is why this trip means so much to me.'
Some of them, like Emech from Belgium, look forward to sharing their experiences with their friends when back home.
"I want to discover the country and share my experiences on why they should visit Rwanda," he remarked.
Watch this video to learn more about the tour and the students' experiences.
Rania Umutoni
