Interfaith Iftar in Kigali: A Celebration of Unity and Tolerance

The United Arab Emirates Embassy in the Rwandan capital, Kigali, hosted an interfaith iftar dinner at the residence of His Excellency Ambassador Hazza AlQahtani, bringing together religious leaders and dignitaries from diverse backgrounds to celebrate the values of unity, tolerance and coexistence.

The event welcomed representatives from various religious affiliations, including Catholics, Muslims, Anglicans, and other special guests, highlighting the spirit of inclusivity during the holy month of Ramadan.

Speaking at the iftar, H.E. AlQahtani expressed his appreciation to the attendees and emphasized the UAE’s commitment to fostering peace and understanding.

"It is a pleasure for me to welcome you to this interfaith iftar dinner during Ramadan, one of the holiest months of the Islamic calendar," he said, adding how the gathering reflected the multicultural fabric of the UAE, where more than 200 nationalities of different faiths live together in peace and harmony.

"We in the UAE believe in the importance of bringing people together during the month of Ramadan, reflecting our principles of compassion, generosity and coexistence," he added.

H.E. AlQahtani also underscored the UAE’s dedication to promoting the values of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and dialogue, stressing that these values are crucial not just during Ramadan but throughout the year.

"Ramadan is an opportunity for a new beginning, a time to recalibrate, reflect, and renew," he said, concluding by extending his warm wishes for a blessed Ramadan to all.

Rwanda’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Clementine Mukeka, also addressed guests, commending the UAE Embassy’s efforts to foster dialogue and unity.

"On behalf of everyone here, I would like to thank Your Excellency Ambassador AlQahtani and the entire team for organizing such a wonderful event," she said.

Reflecting on Rwanda’s own journey toward reconciliation after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, Mukeka also emphasized the power of unity and dialogue in fostering lasting peace.

"In Rwanda, we have seen firsthand the power of unity. Today, Rwanda is a living example of what’s possible when we work toward a shared goal of peace, healing, and progress," she said, reiterating Rwanda’s readiness to build bridges and partnerships with countries around the world, based on the principles of peace and cooperation.

"As we reflect on the values of Ramadan, let us remember that these aren’t just for this month. They’re values we can carry with us every day, in how we treat one another and in the actions we take to make the world a better place," she added.

Abdellatif Oulad Aouid, head of the Islamic Cultural Center in Kigali, also spoke at the event, reflecting on the long-standing partnership between the center and the UAE. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation in supporting educational and humanitarian programs in Rwanda.

"The Islamic Cultural Center is a model of tolerance and coexistence, hosting more than 700 students under the guidance of 45 teachers, without any religious, gender, social, or other discrimination," he said.

He also commended the cooperation between the Islamic Cultural Center and the UAE Embassy in promoting values of solidarity and tolerance through initiatives such as iftar programs, supporting vulnerable communities, and encouraging academic excellence.

"On this occasion, I extend my sincere gratitude to Your Excellency for your continuous support and to the Rwandan authorities for their cooperation. We look forward to furthering our humanitarian efforts together," he said.

The event was a celebration of the shared values that unite people across cultures and faiths, where guests shared conversations over a traditional iftar meal, fostering a spirit of community and mutual respect.

The UAE Embassy’s Interfaith Iftar Dinner served as a powerful reminder that dialogue, understanding, and compassion can foster a more peaceful and inclusive world.