In recent years, Rwanda has emerged as a beacon of creativity and innovation on the African continent. From art and design to film and music, the country’s creative industry is flourishing, showcasing a diverse array of talent and cultural richness. Since 2018, Imbuto Foundation has sought to nurture artistic talent through its ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi programme, in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Arts, as a means of supporting our talented youth in using their gifts to transmit and celebrate our local culture.
Rwandan Design is In
From traditional crafts to modern installations, Rwandan artists are making waves both locally and internationally. The Inema Arts Center in Kigali stands as a hub for artistic expression, providing a platform for emerging talents to showcase their work and connect with audiences from around the world. Imbuto Foundation’s very own ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi KABC store also showcases crafts by up-and-coming Rwandan artists who have established a name for themselves through and beyond participation in Imbuto Foundation’s programme.
Lights, Camera, and Action in the Heart of Africa
In recent years, Rwanda’s film industry has been gaining momentum, with a growing number of filmmakers and production companies making their mark on the global stage. The Rwanda Film Festival, also known as Hillywood, has become a prominent event in the country’s cultural calendar, celebrating African cinema and providing a platform for local filmmakers to showcase their talent. Notable productions like “Munyurangabo” have garnered critical acclaim, shedding light on Rwanda’s rich storytelling tradition and socio-political landscape. However, Imbuto Foundation’s own experience catering to Rwandan artistry has shed light on some of the challenges budding filmmakers may face, including difficulty finding funding for projects. It is imperative for stakeholders to keep supporting the art for creative entrepreneurship in Rwanda to thrive.
Music: Rhythms of Resilience and Diversity
Music is ingrained in the fabric of Rwandan society, serving as a powerful means of cultural expression and storytelling. Before and after the Genocide Against the Tutsi, music was used to keep the beautiful memory of Rwanda alive in those who had been forced to flee their home, offering them encouragement to return and thrive. The current landscape has evolved, with Rwandan music being used both to inspire and to simply celebrate life. ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi has produced some stellar musicians who have shared their art beyond Rwandan borders. Through exchanges with foreign artists and international performances, they have embodied Rwanda’s newfound openness to the world and helped to reduce local stigma about the youth seeking out careers in the creative industry in Rwanda.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its rapid growth, Rwanda’s creative industry still faces challenges, including limited access to resources, infrastructure, and market opportunities. The ArtRwanda-Ubuhanzi Programme strives to bridge the gaps where they appear, training and mentoring young artists to turn their art into an income-generating activity. This is crucial, as for our Ubuhanzi to live from artistry, they must have the entrepreneurial knowledge and skill to capitalize on their skill and talent.
The best way to ensure the quality of local art and talent that only rises with time is by supporting emerging artists, buying their creations, and showing up for their performances. In the case of our Ubuhanzi, which have now seen 3 cohorts rich in creativity, success depends as much on their training and commitment as on public interest and support.
