A session of the Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative

Project · Supported by UNESCO

Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative

Protecting and promoting artistic freedom in Rwanda, with the support of UNESCO through the UNESCO-Aschberg Programme.

01The project

A platform where artists express themselves freely

The Ikirenga Artistic Freedom Initiative is a project of Ikirenga Art and Culture Promotion, supported by UNESCO through its UNESCO-Aschberg Programme. It advances artistic freedom in Rwanda in line with the UNESCO 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.

Through research, advocacy, training and exhibitions, it supports artists and works with policymakers towards an environment where creative work can be made, shared and earn a living freely.

Supported by
UNESCO-Aschberg Programme, funded by the Kingdom of Norway
Framework
UNESCO 2005 Convention and the 1980 Recommendation concerning the Status of the Artist
Where
Kigali and Musanze, Rwanda
For
Visual artists, musicians, filmmakers and artisans

02How it works

  1. 01

    Research

    A study of the status of artistic freedom in Rwanda: the challenges, gaps and opportunities artists face. Its findings were published.

  2. 02

    Capacity building & mentorship

    Training on legal frameworks for artistic expression, digital security, self-care and business skills, with tailored mentorship.

  3. 03

    Exhibitions & residencies

    Exhibitions, artistic residencies and networking events giving trained artists a platform to present their work to the public, partners and investors.

Mid-term review · March 2024

Reviewed with UNESCO and the Rwanda Arts Council

On 20 and 21 March 2024, Ikirenga hosted UNESCO's Regional Office for Eastern Africa and the Rwanda Arts Council in Kigali and Musanze to review progress with the artists taking part.

  • Greater visibility for Rwandan artists
  • Stronger collaboration within the creative community
  • Artists gained skills and platforms for free expression
  • Raised awareness with policymakers of where the sector needs improvement

Next priorities raised at the review: gender balance across the creative economy, sustainable funding, ongoing capacity building and access to local and international markets for artists' work.

03On UNESCO & in the press