Rwanda to host the 8th Edition of FESPAD

Rwanda is to host the 8th edition of the Pan –African Dance Festival(FESPAD)  in the last week of Feburary.

The RDB Head of Tourism and Conversation Rica Rwigamba confirmed to the press   Wednesday that   FESPAD  is slated for February 23rd and will be concluded March 2nd 2013 under the theme “The spirit of expression.”

“ FESPAD  is in line with Rwanda’s strategy of showcasing our unique cultural heritage to   the entire World through dance,” Rwigamba said.   She added that the festival will create a platform to position Kigali as international events destination while promoting the great aspect of Africa unity through dance.

40 Countries are expected to participant in the 8th  FESPAD  festival and each  country      invited will be represented by 10 participants in the activities planned which will consist of dance competitions in all Rwandan Provinces, dance workshops, concerts featuring local, regional and international artists.

“Special in this edition is the Pan African Dance Competition which will involve  participating countries to compete for the African dance title.  The continental dance competition will focus on traditional dances,” Rwigamba added.   Dance Workshops will include Salsa, Hip hop and Kinyarwanda dances as it was the case of the 7th edition of FESPAD  in 2010.

The RDB Tourism head also revealed that the 8th Edition of FESPAD  was put on February  unlike the last one which was July because the Organizers felt that  times of low season as the second month of the year whereby tourists who visit Rwanda are few can be utilized by artists to showcase their talents.

RDB   will provide more information to the general public as Countries begin confirming to participate on the 8th FESPAD.