Spokesman Report
ISLAMABAD: The High Commission of the Republic of Rwanda hosted a reception at its new Chancery in Islamabad to celebrate Umuganura—Rwanda’s National Harvest Day.
Hosted by H.E. Ms. Harerimana Fatou, High Commissioner of Rwanda, the celebration was held under the theme “Umuganura: The Source of Unity and the Foundation of Self-Reliance.” The event brought together senior government officials, parliamentarians, ambassadors, diplomats, business leaders and representatives of the African diplomatic community.
Prominent guests included Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Foreign Secretary; H.E. Titus M. J. Abu-Basutu, Ambassador of Zimbabwe; H.E. Sheikh Nur Mohamed Hassan, Ambassador of Somalia; Mr. Yushau Mohammed, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of Nigeria; Senator Sitara Ayaz; and Ms. Misbah Khar, Adviser to the Chairman Senate. Diplomats from the Kenyan and Rwandan High Commissions, along with representatives of various African diplomatic missions, also attended the reception.
Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Ms. Harerimana Fatou highlighted the cultural and historical significance of Umuganura. She said that Umuganura celebrations are observed in Rwanda during the first and second Fridays of August, bringing people together to celebrate national achievements, express gratitude for the harvest and renew their commitment to collective progress.
She explained that, historically, Umuganura was celebrated at national, community and family levels. Harvest produce was shared among communities, while traditional music, dance and cultural activities remained central to the occasion. She added that the festival continues to preserve Rwanda’s cultural identity while promoting unity, food security, economic resilience and self-reliance.
Mr. Zafar Bakhtawari, Secretary General of the United Business Group and Chairman of the Pakistan Cultural Forum, participated in the celebration and extended warm greetings to the High Commissioner and the people of Rwanda. He appreciated the values represented by Umuganura and emphasized the role of cultural and business exchanges in strengthening friendship and people-to-people relations between Pakistan and African nations.
The celebration showcased Rwanda’s rich cultural traditions and reflected the spirit of gratitude, hard work, shared responsibility and national unity associated with Umuganura. It also provided an opportunity for diplomats, public representatives and members of the business community to interact and explore avenues for closer cultural and economic cooperation.
The reception concluded in a spirit of friendship, cultural understanding and shared optimism, highlighting the growing engagement between Pakistan, Rwanda and the wider African diplomatic community.
