The second edition of the Kivu beach expo and festival in Karongi district has strongly showcased lake Kivu’s growing role in Rwanda’s tourism, creativity, and investment landscape.
Organized by Yirunga Ltd, the vibrant 10-day event ran from June 26 to July 4, 2026, closing on Liberation day. More than 90 exhibitors, including made in Rwanda producers and international participants, displayed their products and innovations.
Yirunga LTD managing director Iyaremye Yves described the event’s significance:“We are at the second Kivu beach expo and festival in Karongi district. This is a special exhibition that has run for 10 days, bringing together over 90 exhibitors from Rwanda and abroad.”
The festival combined four key components: a 10-day expo, the popular Carefree zone attracting 5,000-6,000 visitors daily (a first for Karongi), and exciting traditional boat racing competitions. Ten men’s and ten women’s teams competed, with female rowers covering 600 meters on the lake. The top three teams on each side received prizes.
Yves explained the broader vision:“All of this aims to change the mindset of the population about lake Kivu… It is not just a place for fishing or a site of danger, but a place of opportunities that helps people exploit their environment through tourism.”
He added that the boat racing initiative, launched by Yirunga LTD in Rutsiro district in December 2025, will expand nationally. The next edition will take place in Rubavu district from July 9 to 19, 2026.
PSF Karongi district chairperson Ntwari Janvier praised the collaboration:“Our collaboration with Yirunga has been excellent… This year’s participation has been very strong, with at least 3,000 people attending daily compared to 500–600 in previous years.”
The event has boosted local businesses such as hotels and traders, while helping participants discover new opportunities and deepening public appreciation for Lake Kivu’s long-term economic potential. Through exhibitions, culture, and competition, Karongi’s kivu beach festival is successfully transforming perceptions and unlocking the lake’s promise for tourism and entrepreneurship.
Naomi Irakoze Mugaragu