The Mayor of Musanze District, Nsengimana Claudien, together with the Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Development, Uwanyirigira Clarisse, welcomed a delegation from the Rwanda Elders Advisory Forum (REAF) on an official visit aimed at assessing challenges affecting Rwandan culture and the Kinyarwanda language.

The delegation, led by REAF Vice Chairperson Mukantabana Marie, is undertaking a nationwide assessment to better understand the current state of cultural preservation and language use. The visit to Musanze District forms part of broader efforts to analyze existing challenges, identify their root causes, and develop practical recommendations to safeguard and promote Rwanda’s cultural heritage.

During their visit, the REAF team engaged with various community groups, including elders and youth, in discussions centered on the evolving use of Kinyarwanda and the preservation of cultural values. Participants shared insights on the influence of globalization, changing social norms, and the role of families and institutions in maintaining cultural identity.

In addition, the delegation visited Wisdom School, where they held interactive sessions with educators and students. These discussions provided valuable perspectives on how Kinyarwanda is taught and used in academic settings, as well as the attitudes of younger generations toward their cultural heritage. Teachers highlighted the importance of strengthening language instruction, while students shared their experiences and suggestions for making Kinyarwanda more engaging and relevant in modern contexts.

Speaking during the visit, district leaders emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in preserving Rwanda’s identity. They reaffirmed Musanze District’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote cultural values and the proper use of Kinyarwanda.

The findings from this engagement are expected to contribute to REAF’s broader recommendations, which will guide future policies and strategies aimed at reinforcing Rwanda’s cultural foundations and ensuring that the Kinyarwanda language continues to thrive across generations.