IT was an evening of fun and merrymaking as a new support centre for street children was officially launched in Kicukiro District by Kaami Arts organisation on Saturday.

 The launch, which took place at St Joseph’s Primary School playfield was characterised by performances from children as well as entertainment from artistes, dance and drama groups.

In a message delivered by the Kicukiro District Cooperatives Officer Charles Habonimana, the district Mayor, Paul Jules Ndamage, said that the event proved that most children have talent and all they need is someone to help them develop it.

"I am impressed by these children and the enormous talents they possess. They have proved that they know something about the Rwandan culture and I believe they will grow up to be great performers like Mani Martin, Knowless Butera and many others we are seeing today,” the official said.

He made the remarks after witnessing disadvantaged children display their different talents before a sizeable crowd at the school’s playground.

The event featured entertaining performances by New Life Bible children’s choir and a play by Daphrose Rugamba of Centre Cyprien Kids as well as an inspirational poem by Winnie Rugamba.

Also to impress on the day was Amizero Kompagnie dance group which pulled off some well-choreographed contemporary dance moves which wowed the crowd.

Inema Arts equally dazzled with live painting art while rap music performances by Gisimba Memorial Centre kids spiced up an already mesmerising afternoon.

To crown the day was 13-year-old hip-hop sensation Babou, whose performance thrilled the crowd while a traditional dance troupe, Groupe Scolaire de Kimisagara, made sure that those who attended got a feel of the rich Rwandan traditional dance.

After the performances, it was time for serious business as Martine Umulisa, a Co-founder of the Kaami Arts introduced her team to the gathering, and expounded further on the essence of the project.

She said the objective of Kaami Arts is to train children in arts including music, dance, theatre, drama and percussion, through its artistic education project which runs in different schools and centres.

The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Children (NCC), Zaina Nyiramatama stressed why it is important to focus on disadvantaged children, commending such initiatives as vital for the nation.

”Teaching these children the arts helps with healing and restoring hope among them. From such training we can have a strong arts industry and help improve people’s learning and perception rather than ignoring their talents,” Nyiramatama said.

After the speeches, there was a break and events resumed with storytelling and entertainment until 6:30 pm when curtains closed on an otherwise wonderful afternoon.