Kigali, Rwanda – Rwandans ushered in the new year 2026 in a wave of joy, reflection, and nationwide celebration, marking the end of 365 days of 2025 with gratitude and renewed hope.
From the shores of Lake Kivu in the west to the eastern regions near the national parks, communities across the country came together to celebrate the transition into a new chapter.
In the City of Kigali, thousands gathered at key landmarks for new year festivities highlighted by fireworks displays and live entertainment.
Fireworks lit up the night sky at Kigali City Hall, Canal Olympia in Rebero, Kigali Heights, and Kigali Pelé Stadium, drawing large crowds eager to witness the symbolic close of the year.
Other popular venues, including Hôtel des Mille Collines, Serena Hotels, Atelier du Vin, and the Kigali Convention Centre parking area, also hosted vibrant celebrations.
Central Kigali saw a strong turnout as revelers counted down to midnight, many reflecting on the year gone by and expressing gratitude for life, health, and personal milestones achieved in 2025.
For some, simply completing the year in safety and freedom was reason enough to celebrate, while others shared ambitions and resolutions for the year ahead.
Music and entertainment played a central role in welcoming 2026. Concerts at the Kigali Convention Centre attracted large crowds, particularly young people, with performances by prominent artists including Kevin Kade and Tanzania’s Ali Kiba.
Other musicians such as Chris Eazy, Shaffy, Bwiza, Bulldog, Kenny K-Shot, and Ruti Joel kept audiences energized late into the night, creating a festive atmosphere that carried into the early hours of the New Year.
Across the country, many Rwandans chose to end 2025 in prayer. Churches were filled with worshippers giving thanks for the year that had passed and seeking guidance for the one ahead.
Religious leaders called on citizens to enter 2026 with faith, discipline, and unity, emphasizing peace, responsibility, and positive values as foundations for national progress.
Beyond the capital, celebrations were equally lively. In Rubavu District, residents and visitors gathered along the shores of Lake Kivu, where beachside events and fireworks welcomed the New Year.
In Huye, Musanze, Nyamirambo, and other towns, people marked the occasion by sharing meals, attending concerts, and capturing memorable moments through photographs.
As the clock struck midnight, messages of hope and calm echoed across the country. Leaders and citizens alike highlighted Rwanda’s continued safety and stability throughout 2025, calling for collective effort to make 2026 a year of greater opportunity, unity, and development.
The New Year began with optimism, celebration, and reflection, signaling a shared determination among Rwandans to build on past achievements and move forward together into 2026.
