This gathering, which highlighted Rwanda's deep cultural traditions, was an opportunity to reflect on the significance of Umuganura, both in Rwanda's past and present.
During his address, Ambassador Maj Gen Joseph Nzabamwita emphasized that Umuganura is far more than just a harvest festival. He explained that it is a centuries-old tradition that serves as a day of thanksgiving, where Rwandans express gratitude for their blessings and recognize the country's achievements.
As the Ambassador noted, the festival has been celebrated at various levelsâ€"nationally, within communities, and in family settingsâ€"making it a truly unifying event for the Rwandan people. This was a moment for Rwandans in Russia to connect with their roots and embrace the cultural values of their homeland, even as they live abroad.
Looking back at the history of Umuganura, Amb. Nzabamwita shared that it dates back to the 9th century, making it a significant part of Rwanda's cultural heritage. In the past, the King would preside over national ceremonies, while heads of families led the celebrations at the community level.
The Ambassador emphasized that Umuganura was a celebration of national unity, nationhood, and the vitality of Rwanda's agricultural production, which has always been a cornerstone of the country's identity. It was more than just a festival symbolizing a renewal of life and a strengthening of the nation's agricultural foundation.
The envoy also reflected on the negative impact of colonialism on the celebration of Umuganura. He explained that during the colonial era, the Belgian colonialists abolished the festival in 1925 as part of a broader effort to dismantle Rwanda's traditional social structures.
The colonial powers recognized that to maintain control, they needed to sever the cultural ties that bound Rwandans together, and Umuganura was one of the first traditions to be targeted. This disruption had a lasting effect on the celebration of Rwandan culture, even after Rwanda gained independence.
Following the liberation of Rwanda by the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF), Umuganura was revived as a key cultural event. Amb. Nzabamwita highlighted how the RPF's leadership, upon bringing peace and stability to the country, recognized the importance of restoring the festival as a symbol of national renewal. In this way, Umuganura became a way for Rwandans to come together and celebrate their individual and collective contributions to the country's progress.
The Ambassador explained that Umuganura today serves multiple important functions. Culturally, it preserves the ancient traditions and heritage of Rwanda in a rapidly changing world. Socially, it fosters national unity by bringing together people from all walks of life, creating a shared sense of identity.
Economically, it highlights the importance of agriculture, which remains a vital sector in Rwanda's economy, employing 80% of the workforce and contributing significantly to the national GDP. Finally, politically, it reflects Rwanda's sovereignty, self-reliance, and efforts toward food security, showing the country's commitment to economic prosperity and independence.
Ambassador Nzabamwita concluded his address by stressing that Umuganura is not merely a harvest festival, but a testament to Rwanda's resilience and its hopeful outlook for the future. He emphasized that it is a day of thanksgiving that unites Rwandans, celebrated alongside their friends and partners worldwide.
The event was especially enjoyable for the youth, who make up a large part of the Rwandan diaspora in the Russian Federation.
The celebration featured traditional Rwandan meals, cultural performance by the Diaspora Cultural Troupe 'Imena Mu Nganzo', and music performed by the Diaspora Music Band.
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