Organized by the Rwandan community in Brighton in collaboration with the National Association of Rwandese Communities in the UK (NARC-UK) and the Rwandan Embassy in the UK, the event featured a retreat and cultural celebration attended by dignitaries and community members alike.

The retreat was attended by Rwanda’s Ambassador to the UK, Johnston Busingye, along with leaders from 14 Rwandan community organizations under NARC-UK.

Reflecting on the retreat’s purpose and outcomes, Ambassador Busingye described it as a crucial platform for unity and progress.

"This retreat was an excellent opportunity to bring together representatives from across the UK. It had been over five years since the last event of this kind. The aim was to reflect on where we’ve come from, where we’re heading, and how we can work together to meet the expectations of the communities we represent," Busingye said.

He added that discussions focused on key topics such as Rwanda’s development agenda, trade, diaspora remittances, vocational contributions, and fostering unity among Rwandans.

The celebration portion of the event featured cultural showcases, including traditional Rwandan music, dance, and cuisine, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride.

Brighton City Mayor Mohammed Asaduzzaman joined as a special guest and lauded the Rwandan community’s efforts.

He viewed the event as a platform to celebrate the richness of Rwandan culture while promoting unity and understanding among the diverse communities in Brighton.

Event organizer Wibabara Ange highlighted the importance of passing down cultural traditions to younger generations.

"What we’re doing is connecting our children with their roots and showing them our beautiful culture, so they can embrace it as their own. We hope to make this an annual event, bringing together Rwandans and friends of Rwanda in Brighton," she said.

Jabo Butera, Chairperson of NARC-UK, praised the dedication of attendees who traveled from across the UK to participate.

"I deeply appreciate the commitment of Rwandans who set aside their weekend to come together, engage in discussions, and celebrate," Butera said.

NARC-UK, which has been active for nine years, is gearing up to celebrate its 10th anniversary next year, reflecting on its achievements in uniting and empowering the Rwandan diaspora community in the UK.

Amb. Busingye described the retreat as an excellent opportunity to bring together representatives from across the UK.

Wibabara Ange highlighted the importance of passing down cultural traditions to younger generations.

Jabo Butera, Chairperson of NARC-UK, praised the dedication of attendees who traveled from across the UK to participate.

Participants cutting a cake at the event to celebrate unity.

Brighton City Mayor Mohammed Asaduzzaman joined as a special guest and lauded the Rwandan community's efforts.

The event was also attended by some of UK journalists.

Amb. Johnston Busingye, Wibabara Ange who is among organizers of the event and uri mu the Mayor of Brighton Mohammed Asaduzzaman posing for a photo of sosuvenir.

The event also featured Rwandan traditional performances.

Egide Ruhashya and Patrice Shema were among participants of the event.

Amb. Johnston Busingye during an interview with IGIHE.

Ange Wibabara, organizer of the event bringing together members of the Rwandan community in the UK and their friends, speaks with IGIHE in Brighton City.

Photos of the retreat

First Secretary of Rwanda High Commissioner in the UK , James Uwizeye sharing ideas.

Jabo Butera, Chairperson of NARC-UK commende hsi colleagues for attenting the retreat.

Amb. Busingye highlighted that Rwandans discussed investment and trade as key drivers of the nation's development."

The retreat was a good opportunity to share ideas that contribute to Rwanda's development goals.

The retreat was attended by Rwanda's Ambassador to the UK, Johnston Busingye, along with leaders from 14 Rwandan community organizations under NARC-UK.

Amb. Busingye expressed delight for successsful gathering that brought together Rwandans to discuss development.

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