Ibere Rya Bigogwe Founder, Ngabo Karegeya, tips youth on entrepreneurship, personal growth

The eleventh edition of Rwanda Day took place on February 3-4, 2024, seeing President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame joining over 6,000 delegates from across the globe to reflect on the contribution of Rwandan diaspora to the development of the country.

Karegeya who is among the youth dedicating their efforts to promote and steer local tourism said that nobody would have imagined that a cattle keeper could enter high profile venues such as the Kigali Convention Center and be invited in crucial national occasions such as Rwanda Day.

“For me personally, attending Rwanda Day as a cattle keeper and being trusted with a Visa to America shows that my project is valued,” Karegeya said during the event.

He said that attending Rwanda Day was a great platform to meet people who love “what I do and to introduce it to others, and an excellent opportunity to encourage Rwandans to appreciate their local tourism.”.

With the experience he drew from the Rwanda Day, Karegeya advised youth to pursue what they love, be persistent and not to neglect small things as they can potentially grow into huge ones.

“Young people, I urge you to continue doing what you love and have confidence in yourselves. It’s normal to be afraid to start, but if you believe in yourself, it will work out. It might take time, but it will happen,” Karegeya said during the gathering.

“I have learned that Rwanda loves its youth and is ready to support good projects, even our President is ready to support us. The country has opened its doors, and we should seize this opportunity,” he further said.

Since at a young age, Karegeya developed passion for cows and natural beauty of his home, the green hills of Bigogwe and its cultural heritage to showcase it to broader audience.

Now, he receives both local and international tourists, guides them through the Bigogwe pastures, teaching them about the Rwandan culture centered around cows.

In addition, his company offers ecological and cultural trips, study, sport, and leisure tours that focus on Bigogwe and other surrounding areas.