Rwandan Ambassador Diane Gashumba thrilled by The Ben at Umuganura concert in Sweden
Rwandan Ambassador to Sweden, Dr. Diane Gashumba, expressed her delight at being among those entertained by Rwandan star Mugisha Benjamin, popularly known as The Ben, during a vibrant concert in Sweden that brought together Rwandans and friends from across Northern Europe.
The concert, titled “Umuganura Harvest Fest”, took place at Eventhallen Ole Deviks Vei 10 on 16–17 August 2025. It gathered Rwandans residing in various Northern European countries to celebrate Umuganura, the annual Rwandan harvest festival. Hundreds of attendees traveled from countries including Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway, alongside friends of Rwanda and regional diplomats.
Umuganura has long been celebrated in Rwanda as a symbol of unity and gratitude, highlighting the achievements of citizens. Beyond its cultural significance, it has become an important gathering for Rwandans abroad to discuss the country’s development and explore opportunities for advancement.
In Northern Europe, the celebration was organized in collaboration with state institutions, particularly the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB). Attendees shared their accomplishments and discussed new opportunities available through government initiatives such as Ejo Heza (long-term savings) and housing programs aimed at building a secure future for Rwandans worldwide.
The festivities combined cultural displays and development discussions with lively entertainment. Several artists performed on stage, including The Ben, a leading figure in Rwandan music and a role model for the diaspora; the Finnish-based Indahemuka troupe; the Norway-based Rwandan family ensemble; Swedish young artist Joni Boy Debande; and Nigerian performer Anthony Sky.
The audience erupted in excitement when The Ben took the stage, performing some of his most popular songs and capturing moments on video with fans as a memorable keepsake from the Umuganura concert.
Ambassador Diane Gashumba: “A Truly Special Event”
Ambassador Gashumba, attending the event, openly shared her joy at being entertained by one of her favorite artists. Through her X and Instagram accounts, she praised the concert for leaving a lasting impression on attendees.
In a social media statement, she said:
"The Ben, an artist I greatly admire, lit up Northern Europe and shone in Norway in an extraordinary way. At the Umuganura 2025 celebrations, his voice was more than music—it was a memory, pride, and a sense of home wrapped in song."
She added:
"It wasn’t just a concert—it was a unique celebration filled with joy among Rwandans from Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Sweden, as well as the African diaspora, friends of Rwanda, and diplomats in Norway, all under one roof."
Highlighting the event’s broader significance, Gashumba noted the RSSB’s contribution in promoting long-term savings and sustainable housing through programs like Ejo Heza, emphasizing the importance of preparing for a secure future wherever Rwandans live.
The Umuganura 2025 festivities reaffirmed the Rwandan diaspora’s role as a source of unity, cultural pride, and national development. Attendees agreed that the spirit of collaboration and shared achievement remains a cornerstone for Rwanda’s continued progress.
Ambassador Diane Gashumba and Rwandans living in Northern Europe celebrate Umuganura and the unity that connects them to their country
Following this concert, The Ben is preparing for the “Music in Space” concert at Camp Kigali on Saturday, 23 August 2025, where he will perform alongside Kenny Sol, Ariel Wayz, Bushali, Uganda’s Vampino, South Africa’s Boohle, and other artists.
