Kivu Beach Festival 2025: Where Culture, Tourism, and Business Meet on Rwanda’s Western Lake Kivu Shores.
Western Rwanda is preparing for a big summer event that will bring music, tourism, business, and culture together along the shores of Lake Kivu. The Kivu Beach Expo & Festival 2025, organized by Yirunga Ltd in partnership with the Western Province, which will take place from July 3 to August 31, moving through five districts: Rubavu, Rutsiro, Karongi, Rusizi, and Nyamasheke.
This 41 days festival is not just about entertainmentit’s also a way to promote tourism, support local businesses and promote made in Rwanda, and also attract investors to Rwanda’s beautiful lake region.
At the press launch on June 27 in Rubavu, Yves Iyaremye, CEO of Yirunga Ltd and the festival organizer, explained the purpose of the event:
“We want to give Rwandans a meaningful summer. This festival is a platform to relax, promote Made in Rwanda products, and show the world the beauty and investment opportunities around Lake Kivu.This year’s edition is bigger than the one held in 2024. The festival will travel to all five lake-bordering districts, giving each one a chance to display its culture, businesses, and tourist attractions.”
Yves said that the Visitors will enjoy:
Beach sports: Volleyball, swimming, boat races
Live music every day, with artists from Rwanda and DR Congo
Made in Rwanda Expo: showcasing local food, crafts, fashion, and handmade items
Talent shows for young people to show their skills
Children’s games and entertainment zones
Art and culture displays.
Constant Habiyaremye, from the KIAKA Cooperative in Rubavu, says the festival is a chance to show the world that Rubavu is both safe and full of potential.
“Even though there are security concerns across the border in DR Congo, Rubavu is peaceful and beautiful. It’s a perfect place for tourists and investors. We will also present our handmade crafts chairs, decorations, and handballsto show the talent we have.” he said.
The organizers believe this festival will help improve the local economy, especially for young people, small business owners, and local cooperatives. It will give them a chance to sell, promote, and connect with new markets and clients.
Yves Iyaremye emphasized:
“This is not just a music festival. It’s a tool for development. We want to connect tourism, creativity, and economic growth. People will learn, earn, and enjoy.In addition to music and fun, the festival will also promote investment in local agriculture, manufacturing, services, and cross-border trade.”
Yves add that the event is for families as well. Each district will have a special zone for kids, with games and fun activities designed just for them, making the festival inclusive and family friendly.
The Kivu Beach Expo & Festival 2025 is expected to attract thousands of visitors each day, especially from neighboring DR Congo and across the East African region. It is more than a festival it is a celebration of Rwandan beauty, talent, business, and culture.
“Kivu Beach Festival is a bridge between people, tourism, and opportunity. We encourage everyone Rwandans and foreigners to join us for a summer full of joy, culture, and connection,” said Yves Iyaremye CEO of Yirunga ltd.
When and Where It Will Happen
District Location ,Dates ,Number of Days
Rubavu district at Kivu Public Beach July 3–12 ,10 days
Rutsiro district at Boneza Public Beach, July 15–20 ,5 days
Karongi District at Carnival Public Beach, July 22–27, 5 days
Rusizi district at Rusizi Market / Beach Until August 17, 10 days
Nyamasheke district at Tyazo Market / Ishara Beach August 20–31 , 11 days
Each location will host music concerts, beach games, product exhibitions, talent shows, cultural performances, and much more.
By Hadjara Nshimiyimana.
