Kivu Beach Expo and Festival: A Cultural tourism event set to boost Rutsiro’s tourism potential
As preparations for the Kivu Beach Expo and Festival continue,a major cultural tourism event combined with an exhibition organized by Yirunga LTD in partnership with Rutsiro District,stakeholders including investors and residents of Boneza Sector are being engaged to assess progress and strengthen readiness for this historic festival.
Tourism investors operating along the shores of Lake Kivu, including Hon. Odette Nyiramirimo, owner of Ruchel Kivu Beach Hotel, and the proprietor of KaySun Hotel in Kariba, expressed their appreciation for this initiative, noting that it will significantly enhance tourism activities in Rutsiro and increase the number of visitors to the area.
They emphasized that the festival will help showcase the natural and cultural attractions of Boneza Sector, many of which remain underexploited.
On Bugarura Island, home to over 2,000 residents, the community noted that tourism activities have already helped promote their island and unlock its economic potential. They expressed satisfaction that such events are reaching their area, reinforcing their sense of inclusion in local development.
Yves Iyaremye, Managing Director of Yirunga LTD, stated that the Kivu Beach Expo and Festival will feature several innovations designed to attract both domestic and international tourists.
He highlighted activities such as a 20-kilometer hiking challenge, a Badmethon game to be held at KaySun Hotel, boat racing competitions, swimming contests, and a beach volleyball tournament scheduled for December 13 at Rushel Kivu Beach Resort.
There will also be cultural tourism experiences including watching the famous Inyambo long-horned cattle swimming in Lake Kivu, a guided tour of Napoleon Island, and a coffee-themed tourism experience through Boneza Coffee.
Boneza Sector Executive Secretary, Munyamahoro Muhizi Patrick, said the festival will greatly enhance the visibility of both Rutsiro District and Boneza Sector by promoting cultural and nature-based tourism.
He also highlighted attractions found in Boneza, including Lake Kivu, various islands, the renowned Inyambo cattle that swim across the lake, diverse bird species, rich island vegetation, and modern hotels beautifully lined along the lake shores.
The Kivu Beach Expo and Festival is scheduled to take place from December 9 to 15, 2025, in the expansive gardens of Palega Beach Inn overlooking Bugarura Island. For the first time in Rutsiro’s history, the festival will feature a Boat Party on December 13–14, where participants will enjoy live performances from artists and DJs while sailing on Lake Kivu.
The festival is expected to become a major catalyst for tourism development in Rutsiro, attracting investment, promoting cultural heritage, and creating new economic opportunities for local communities through sustainable tourism activities.
The Mayor of Rutsiro District, Kayitesi Dative, stated that many benefits are expected from this event, confirming that it is a significant investment in the district’s tourism sector.
She said:
“What we expect from this festival, in particular, is to celebrate the progress made—especially in the tourism sector—and to promote Rutsiro as a tourism destination. Another key objective is to show investors that once you choose to invest in this district, you are choosing a perfect place for relaxation and retirement.”
She added that it is also an ideal place for sports activities and swimming, thanks to the available (piscine) facilities.
The Kivu Beach Expo and Festival is scheduled to take place at the beginning of December, from December 9th to 15th, 2025, in the spacious gardens of Palega Beach Inn, which overlooks Bugarura Island, home to more than 2,000 residents.
For the first time in history, the Kivu Beach Expo and Festival in Rutsiro will feature a Boat Party on December 13th–14th, 2025, where attendees will be entertained by various musicians and top DJs performing live as participants enjoy food and drinks in the middle of Lake Kivu.
