A vibrant celebration of Rwandan craftsmanship, culture and business will be happening in Boston, United States, from July 4-7.
Dubbed the Made in Rwanda weekend celebration, the cultural initiative in co-organized by two US-based event management firms AfroHub Music Entertainment and AfriQue Events to not only connect the North American diaspora with Rwanda but to also foster a deeper connection with their homeland's rich heritage and modern innovations.
Ernesto Ugeziwe, the brains behind the event told The New Times that, "this weekend of celebration brings the hearts of Rwanda to North America, seamlessly integrating exhilarating music and entertainment. Made in Rwanda Weekend is more than just a weekend, it is a movement.”
Inspired by the Rwanda Day weekend which took in Washington DC in February, Ugeziwe explained that they realized how people in their communities need such a get-together where they can spend time together, before coming up with an idea to bring Rwandans together and spend a weekend of entertainment and networking in Boston.
In collaboration with the Rwandan Embassy in the US and various Rwandan communities across North America and support of local recording studios and labels, organisers aligned this celebration with the festive spirit of the US and Canada's 4th of July celebrations and the historic 30th anniversary of Rwandan liberation (#Kwibohora30).
The event will among others feature dynamic lineup of Rwandan artists, singers and DJs, alongside notable talents from the diaspora.
"We created a cultural fusion that resonates with attendees from all walks of life for an unforgettable journey through art, music and cultural exhibitions that celebrate not just Rwandan, but also American and Canadian spirit of independence and innovation,” Ugeziwe noted.
Among the activities of the weekend celebration will be Showcasing some made in Rwanda products and services, sharing East African food and enjoying music from Rwandan popular artists and DJs whose "names will be communicated in due course”.
The event will also include activities such as a Meet and Greet (Hobe Night), Made in Rwanda Expo & Concert and a boat cruise among others.