The 2025 Heroes Day Concert at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (KCEV), Camp Kigali, was a night to remember as Ruti Joel, the Rwanda National Ballet (Urukerereza), and the Rwanda Army Band delivered powerful performances celebrating the country’s 31st National Heroes Day.
A Night of Tribute and Culture
The highly anticipated event brought together Rwandans from all walks of life, with François Ngarambe, Chancellor of CHENO, among the distinguished guests. The concert, which serves as a cultural prelude to Heroes Day commemorations on February 1st, featured traditional music, dance, and military tributes honoring Rwanda’s past and present heroes.
In his welcome remarks, City of Kigali Mayor Dusengiyumva Samuel commended the strong collaboration between the City of Kigali and the National Orders and Decorations of Honour (CHENO) in organizing this annual concert to honor national heroes. He also noted that the event marked the conclusion of the Kigali Youth Festival 2025, which began on January 10, 2025.
Urukerereza: A Legacy of Cultural Preservation
One of the standout performances came from The Rwanda National Ballet, Urukerereza, which captivated the audience with their mesmerizing traditional dances. Founded in 1974, the ballet group lived up to its name—meaning “one who entertains till dawn”—with an energetic showcase of Rwandan folklore and cultural heritage. Their performance paid homage to Rwanda’s rich traditions while reinforcing the importance of national unity and pride.
Rwanda Army Band Delivers a Thrilling Performance
Adding to the night’s spectacle, the Rwanda Defence Force Military Band Regiment took the stage, delivering a powerful and patriotic defense performance. As Rwanda’s official ceremonial band, the group is renowned for its role in both state and military functions, and last night, they embodied the resilience and strength of the nation’s armed forces. Their performance served as a tribute to the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA), whose courage and sacrifice ended the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994.
Ruti Joel’s Unforgettable Tribute
The evening reached its emotional peak when Rwandan cultural singer, Ruti Joel, took the stage. With his signature soulful melodies, he delivered a heartfelt musical tribute to Rwanda’s heroes, resonating deeply with the audience. His performance, set against the backdrop of Camp Kigali’s historic significance, was a moving reminder of Rwanda’s resilience and unity.
A Month-Long Celebration of Heroism
The concert marked the grand finale of the Kigali Youth Festival 2025, a month-long celebration that engaged young people in various activities, including:
- Public lectures on heroism
- Sports tournaments in sitball, football, basketball, and dance across all districts, with winners recognized and awarded
- The Youth Exhibition at Imbuga City Walk, showcasing Made in Rwanda products
- A visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, among other activities
A Night to Remember
The 2025 Heroes Day Concert successfully brought together music, tradition, and patriotism, setting the perfect tone for the official Heroes Day celebrations. As Rwandans across the country prepare to honor their heroes, last night’s performances will be remembered as a powerful expression of national pride and cultural identity.