Rwandans in Russia, friends celebrate Umuganura

Rwandans and their friends living in Russia gathered on Friday, August 1, to celebrate Umuganura, Rwanda’s cultural festival where communities come together to share the harvest. During the event, they were reminded that Umuganura highlights the importance of preserving culture, fostering unity, and promoting economic self-reliance. The celebration took place in the garden of the Rwandan Embassy in Moscow and was attended by Rwandans residing in Russia, ambassadors and diplomats representing various countries, as well as officials from Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Celebrated annually since its reinstatement in 2011, this year’s Umuganura carried the theme: “Isoko y’ubumwe n’ishingiro ryo kwigira”, which loosely translates to “A source of unity and foundation for self-reliance.” In his remarks, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Russia, Maj. Gen. Joseph Nzabamwita, told attendees that Rwanda’s National Harvest Festival, observed annually on the first Friday of August, is a day of thanksgiving and a national heritage that reflects unity, gratitude, blessings, and national pride. “Today, Umuganura underscores the importance of preserving our cultural heritage, strengthening national unity, ensuring food security, and building economic resilience,” he said. “With agriculture employing 80% of the workforce and contributing 40% to the national GDP, Umuganura highlights the sector’s significance.” He added that the festival also promotes sovereignty and self-reliance in the face of globalization and climate change. The ambassador concluded, “Umuganura Day is more than just a harvest celebration; it’s a testament to Rwanda’s enduring culture—celebrating with friends and partners in the spirit of global peace.” Ambassador Peter Mathuki, speaking on behalf of the diplomatic community, expressed his pleasure in joining the Umuganura 2025 celebration, a holiday deeply rooted in Rwandan tradition. The Kenyan envoy noted that Umuganura serves as a reminder of the power of community, culture, and gratitude—values that other countries are learning from Rwanda. “Umuganura is more than just a celebration of the harvest and nature,” he said. “It reflects the national identity of the Rwandan people and stands as a symbol of national pride and the values that have shaped the nation.” During the event, participants were served traditional Rwandan dishes including Umutsima (cassava bread), sweet potatoes, yams, and beans.