Rutsiro: Over 5,000 attend Kivu Beach Expo & Festival as Boneza comes alive with joy and tourism development
Residents of Boneza Sector in Rutsiro District expressed immense excitement as the first day of the Kivu Beach Expo & Festival unfolded.
The festival officially kicked off on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Palega Beach Inn Hotel located along the shores of Lake Kivu. It was the first time this festival had reached the district, bringing with it a unique focus on promoting water-based tourism, culture, and Made-in-Rwanda products.
Organized by Yirunga Ltd in partnership with Rutsiro District, the event attracted more than 5,000 participants, many of whom came from Bugarura Island, home to over 2,000 residents.
The large turnout reflected how much residents and visitors had been longing for such an event, marking a historic first for Rutsiro.
Renowned artist Nsengiyumva, popularly known as “Igisupusupu,” performed in Rutsiro for the first time and was warmly received by crowds from all corners of the district and beyond.
His performance highlighted the unique spirit of togetherness the festival inspired. Visitors from Bugarura Island also showcased the distinct nature of water travel, since reaching the venue requires a boat, giving the festival a vibrant and appealing atmosphere.
Over 50 exhibitors participated, showcasing a variety of Made-in-Rwanda products, including handicrafts, beverages, and foods such as the locally made ‘Umunezero Drink’ and honey from Rutsiro Honey. Rushel Kivu Resort, one of the district’s top hotels, presented fresh juice made from locally grown fruits as well as their advanced service technology.
Boneza Coffee treated attendees to the authentic taste of Rutsiro coffee, allowing every visitor to sample freshly brewed coffee on site.
In the agriculture sector, the coffee farmers’ cooperative KOPAKAMA demonstrated the coffee production process—from cultivation to the final cup. Livestock keepers and local innovators also displayed the district’s unique agricultural and creative potential.
Many residents said they were excited to enjoy hotel and restaurant services at affordable prices for the first time, prompting many to dine out in hotels for the first time in their lives.
Prices had been reduced by 50% at Palega Beach Inn, Amara Kivu Resort, and other venues. For example, the popular snack “Petit Mitsing,” normally priced at 3,000 Rwf, was reduced to 1,000 Rwf, while brochettes that previously cost 13,000 Rwf were sold at 1,500 Rwf so that everyone could enjoy the festivities closing the year.
The festival will continue in various parts of the district in the days that follow. On Friday, December 12, boat racing competitions will be held at Kinunu Wonders.
On Saturday, December 13, Rushel Kivu Resort will host Beach Volleyball and Swimming competitions, tours to see the traditional long-horned cows swimming in Lake Kivu, as well as special culinary events including discounted brochettes.
On Sunday, December 14, Kaysun will host Badminton, while Kariba Beach will host Hiking activities. The day will conclude with a Triathlon competition at Umutuzo Lodge.
One of the most anticipated activities is the three-day Boat Party, scheduled from December 12 to 14, during which participants will explore different parts of Lake Kivu as a way of promoting water tourism.
Yves Iyaremye, the CEO of Yirunga Ltd, praised the strong participation from residents and district authorities, emphasizing that such events will continue regularly to boost tourism development in Rutsiro.
He noted that Rwanda’s security and good governance give young people the confidence to develop impactful projects like this one.
Rutsiro District Mayor, Kayitesi Dativa, also expressed gratitude to all partners who contributed to the festival’s success and appreciated artists such as Igisupusupu for bringing joy to residents.
She stressed that it was the first time Rutsiro had hosted an event of such magnitude, adding that efforts will be made to ensure the festival becomes a regular occurrence and reaches other parts of the district.
Kivu Beach Expo & Festival continues to offer a unique platform for industries and creators in Rutsiro to showcase local products, culture, crafts, and tourism potential, while both children and adults enjoy games and various entertainment activities.
