LAST Friday Rwanda joined the rest of the world to mark the International Museums Day, a day largely linked to the preservation of cultural heritage.Rwandan culture is rich with a lot to offer to the world. There are many economies of countries which are emerging very fast based on their cultures. Therefore, there is need for collective efforts as a nation to protect our cultural sites. It also calls for a positive attitude towards local tourism which has demonstrated a huge potential to boost the country’s economy.Sufficient funding of the national museum which showcases our cultural heritage and giving it the required attention is critical. Government efforts in preservation and revamping of cultural heritage through the National Museum of Rwanda have been helpful in preserving some of our cultural sites but much more needs to be done.Capturing Rwanda’s short stories - otherwise formerly known as fireside prattles that used to be told by old men and women to children could also be encouraged. In a situation where the country’s population is dominated by the youth and the era of modern technology, we need to capture the old Rwandan’s perspectives on Rwanda’s past before they pass on.Apart from the rich flavour with which they were told, it is not a secret that the concept of these short stories was to pass on conventional wisdom and important oral history to the young generation. Rwanda’s history will disappear unless we ensure there are deliberate efforts to safeguard all our important cultural sites and historic places. Also, all Rwandans should make it their duty to preserve our heritage as their destruction will deny Rwandans, the important opportunity to know country’s unique heritage.
