Celebrated Gakondo singer and coach of the Rwanda National Ballet (Urukerereza), Intore Massamba, said the presence of Gakondo at the presidential inauguration on Sunday, August 11, is not just entertainment, but a reaffirmation of Rwandan identity. The Gakondo performance will be one of many activities planned for the event. Massamba emphasised that traditional performances, including songs and dances like Amaraba, Igishakamba, Guhamiriza (the warrior dance), and Umushayayo, along with traditional attire, embody the essence of Rwandan identity for the world. ALSO READ: City of Kigali, police urge road users 'to be patient' ahead of presidential inauguration The ‘Kanjogera’ singer’s take comes to light as Rwandan culture prepares to take centre stage at the upcoming presidential inauguration. President-elect Paul Kagame will be sworn in for a new five-year term, with the ceremony set to be the ground presentation of the nation’s rich cultural heritage. The inauguration ceremony not only marks the start of a new term for President Kagame, but also serves as a reminder of Rwanda’s cultural resilience, lifestyle, and uniqueness. The event, expected to draw 45,000 attendees to Amahoro Stadium and millions more through live broadcasts, will feature traditional music, dance, and attire — elements deeply rooted in Rwandan identity. Massamba stated that Rwandans have preserved their originality as traditional warriors, and embraced martial arts. Gakondo has been maintained, and integrating traditional performances into national events is a celebration of this heritage. ALSO READ: VOX POP: Citizens reflect on President’s inauguration “We have prepared a huge performance including songs and dances, to celebrate a landslide victory. Our performance embodies a unique element that goes beyond just entertainment. We are so grateful that our culture was not overlooked on inauguration day,” he said. The ‘Mama Shenge’ singer believes that these cultural elements at the inauguration will resonate deeply, even with the international dignitaries in attendance. He noted: “It shows that despite the bitter history, particularly the colonial period, Rwandans have preserved their originality and love their country where they draw inspiration for the progress of the country.” “This steadfastness,” he continued, “is mirrored in Rwanda’s governance, peaceful elections, free from the violence and unrest that surface in other regions during similar periods.” Looking ahead over the next five years, Massamba urged the youth to recognise the role that Gakondo, particularly Ubutore, has played in shaping Rwanda over the past three decades. “It’s a new era and our cultural heritage will continue to guide us forward. Much of what goes astray is due to youth involvement, and there is no room for anything that could harm our country,” he said.
