Cabinet recently named a steering committee that will ensure a successful exhibition of Rwandan culture during the FIFA World Cup slated for South Africa in June.

The committee that is chaired by Foreign Affairs Minister, Louise Mushikiwabo, also comprises of Ministers of Local Government, Commerce, Sports and culture and the Kigali City Mayor.

Other officials from the committee according to Mayor Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, are officials from Rwanda Development Board and the Private Sector Federation.

While updating the press on the preparations, Mayor Kirabo said that there will be an exhibition which will be preceded by festivals to be held in Kigali and later in South African World Cup host cities of Durban and Tshwane.

"The four Ministers and other members of the steering committee will be charged with ensuring that everything goes on smoothly,” Kirabo said.

Kirabo added that an event is scheduled to take place at Nyamirambo Regional Stadium from February 26 - March 21 where pre-World Cup activities to showcase Rwanda’s products that will be exhibited.

The event, that will include football games where various teams will participate in the Mayor’s Cup tournament, will climax in a friendly match between Durban and Kigali youth in what is termed as ‘Mini- World Cup in Kigali.’

The event slated to attract guests from other East African countries will also be attended by special guests from South Africa.

Other activities to be showcased include Rwanda’s cultural dance, tourism and investment opportunities among others.
"We want to show Rwanda to the outside world as Africa’s success story. 2010 FIFA World Cup is an African event and Rwanda is proud to take part,” Kirabo said.

"Through this, we will be strengthening cooperation between Rwanda and South Africa, and building relationship beyond the World Cup.”

Rwanda will be the only country to participate in the exhibition without having qualified to play in the final round of the World Cup.

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