Rwanda is host to the Trace Awards and Festival that started Friday, October 20, to Sunday, October 22. The event aims to provide a platform for artistes and creatives to shine.

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Ariella Kageruka, Head of Tourism and Conservation at the Rwanda Development Board, expressed the impact of hosting the Trace Awards and Festival during a presser held on Friday, October 20 at Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (KCEV). She emphasized the benefits it offers, not only on an individual level but also to the nation as a whole.

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"Artistes, both local and international, have the opportunity to showcase their talents on this grand stage. However, the impact goes beyond the entertainment sector,” she said.

Kageruka highlighted how various supporting sectors, such as fashion and visual arts, have flourished due to this event. "The differences that we see here are from the fashion, from the visual, from all other supporting sectors. They benefit from such an opportunity and such an event," she stated. This festival serves as a catalyst for creativity and innovation, allowing diverse industries to thrive.

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One aspect of hosting the Trace Awards and Festival is the media value it generates. Kageruka announced that the exposure and association with this event have contributed to media value worth over $56 million (over Rwf68.7 billion). "This exposure has not only changed the perception of Rwanda as a tourist destination but also as an attractive place for investment. Furthermore, it has facilitated the dissemination of valuable information that is crucial for the nation's progress,” Kageruka said.

In terms of venues and support, Kageruka mentioned key players such as the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (KCEV), BK Arena, and RwandAir, the national airline. Additionally, numerous stakeholders, including hotels, food and beverage vendors, and many others, have come together to make this festival a grand success.

The participation of Rwandan brands and creatives proves the collaborative spirit of the Trace Festival. Renowned brands such as Haute Baso, Ashanti, and Bibi Creations have teamed up with Trace to curate a unique three-day cultural experience celebrating Rwandan creativity and talent. The festival features a retail marketplace, a food court, conferences and workshops, and fashion and beauty booths.

An array of Rwandan fashion brands, including Moshions, House of Tayo, Sonia Mugabo, and many more, are taking center stage at the Trace Festival. The festival's culinary offerings are equally diverse, with Rwandan food entrepreneurs providing snacks and treats. Pat’s Bangerz Food Truck, Bunz, Choma’d, and other local food businesses are showcasing their cuisine.