The three-day book festival [Umurage International Books and Art Festival] started on October 1, 2025, concluding on October 3, 2025, at the historic Kigali Genocide Memorial, located in Gisozi.
This landmark event, which marks a cultural milestone for Rwanda, is held under the theme "Rebirth of Culture, Power of Art, and Thought." It brings together authors, booksellers, and university students, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a strong reading and writing culture.
The Kigali Genocide Memorial was intentionally chosen as the venue, reflecting its role in safeguarding Rwanda's historical narratives and combating distortion or denial of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Renowned author Yolande Mukagasana recounted her harrowing survival during the Genocide and her struggles to settle in Belgium. Her decision to document her experiences serves as a legacy for future generations, despite the devastating loss of most of her family in 1994.
In 2021, Mukagasana co-founded the "Fondation Yolande Mukagasana" with other advocates committed to preserving the history of the Genocide. The foundation stands as a vital force against denial, distortion, and genocidal ideology.
The Books Festival’s opening day also welcomed notable figures such as Eric Ndushabandi, a lecturer at the University of Rwanda, who advocates the enriching practice of reading and writing to empower the younger generation.
Chantal Mutesi Gasana, Director of Arise Education, played a pivotal role in co-organizing the festival alongside the Ministry of Youth Arts and Culture. She conveyed aspirations of expanding the festival internationally while strengthening the local literary scene.
Gasana explained, “Each unique festival event aims to inspire passion—this book festival seeks to elevate the reading culture, highlight Rwandan creativity, and provide an interactive space for book and art professionals to connect and advance their endeavors.”
She added, “Our vision includes turning this into an annual event, starting locally to explore Rwanda’s literary potential. By next year, we plan to invite international participants to enrich the experience further.”
The festival highlights engaging activities such as meeting authors, live book readings, and interactive discussions, enabling attendees to exchange ideas and foster collaboration.
Festival participants commenced the event with a guided tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial, gaining deeper insights into Rwanda’s historical journey and resilience.
Gasana reiterated the festival's global ambitions, with a focus on nurturing Rwanda’s youth to embrace writing and broaden their literary horizons.
