Hundreds of cultural enthusiasts gathered at the ancient history museum in Rukari, Nyanza District, on Thursday afternoon to watch Inyambo, a well choreographed parade of traditional royal cows, as part of celebrations  to mark the annual national harvest day better known as Umuganura.

Umuganura, is an occassion to celebrating the country’s achievements and gains in various domains throughout the year.

In the past, Umuganura started from planting to harvest season, and the King’s blessing was sought during the whole process. The day is held on August 1.

This year’s celebrations started on Wednesday with carnival marches in Nyanza and Kigali  and an exhibition of the country’s achievements in education, culture, and agriculture among others.

Speaking at the function in Nyanza, Alphonse Umulisa, the Director General of the Institute of the National Museums of Rwanda (INMR), said the show was aimed at reminding Rwandans of the value and importance of a cow in the community since the ancient times.

"A cow was a symbol of wealth, prestige and power,” Umulisa said.

He said through the One Cow per family programme (Gir’inka), Rwanda reaffirmed that a cow is a stimulus for socio-economic growth, adding that  those who benefited from the scheme saw their lives transform.

The southern province executive secretary, Jeanne Izabiriza, said celebrating Umuganura signifies the importance the government attaches to the country’s cultural roots.

She encouraged residents to safeguard their culture and visit museums to learn Rwanda’s cultural practices and habits.

This year’s Umuganura was held under the theme: "The national harvest day celebration, foundation for self reliance”.

The national day event was held at Petit Stade in Remera, Kigali yesterday.

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