Brisbane, 16 August 2025

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier J. P. Nduhungirehe, joined the Rwandan Community Abroad (RCA) in Queensland, Australia, in celebrating Umuganura, Rwanda’s traditional harvest festival and National Day of Thanksgiving.

The event, hosted by RCA Queensland in Brisbane, brought together over 300 participants, including Rwandans from across Australia, friends of Rwanda, and local community leaders. Traditional dances, cultural performances, and a communal meal marked the first official celebration with a Rwandan Government representative.

Speaking at the gathering, Minister Nduhungirehe conveyed the well wishes of His Excellency Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, thanking the RCA for participating in elections and staying connected to their homeland. The Minister commended the members of the diaspora for attending such an important gathering:

“Rwandans must keep in mind four priorities: (i) to be united, (ii) to be patriotic and defend one’s nation (iii) to invest in Rwanda and (iv) to preserve and promote Rwandan culture.”

He invited Rwandans living abroad to take part in the country’s transformation.

“Accomplishing Rwanda’s vision will be the product of our combined efforts. Whether by bringing your skills, networks, or business ideas, every contribution counts. Together we can build the Rwanda we want.”

Umuganura has been celebrated in Rwanda for centuries as a time to give thanks, share the fruits of the harvest, and come together as one people. Banned during colonial rule, it was reinstated in 2011 to foster unity among Rwandans, as it had been for generations.

The celebration in Brisbane is part of Minister Nduhungirehe’s working visit to Australia, which includes engagements with the Australian Government, business and civil society leaders, notably through participation in the Australian Leadership Retreat.

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