Emperor's Birthday Reception 2026

On 24 February 2026, Ambassador NAKAJO hosted a reception at his residence on the occasion of His Majesty the Emperor's Birthday.
 
The event was attended by approximately 120 guests, including Government officials such as Hon. Dr. Usta KAITESI, the Minister of State of Foreign Affairs, and H.E Ms. Marie-Claire MUKASINE, the Ambassador of Rwanda to Japan. Other distinguished guests included Ambassadors, representatives of  international organizations, Japanese companies, as well as individuals from academia, sports, media and business fields.

During his speech, Ambassador NAKAJO emphasized that the Japan-Rwanda partnership is underpinned by a warm friendship, which is supported by diverse economic cooperation projects, exemplified by JICA’s decades of collaboration.
 
Ambassador NAKAJO also highlighted Rwanda’s strengths and opportunities in his speech, and shared his goal to encourage more Japanese leaders, businesses, academia and individuals to explore partnerships and contribute to Rwanda’s dynamic development, rooted in shared values between the two nations
 
Furthermore, the Ambassador introduced several upcoming Japan-related events, including the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) exhibition and Research Dialogue, organized by JICA and the Ministry in Charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA) on March 12 and 13, 2026.
 
Following these remarks, the Minister of State of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Dr. Usta KAITESI, delivered a congratulatory address. She emphasized the shared values and deepening cooperation between the two nations, rooted in their long-standing relationship. Hon. Dr. Kaitesi concluded with a toast, highlighting the unprecedented importance of Japan-Rwanda relations and celebrating the continued prosperity of both nations.
 
In collaboration with several Japanese companies, exhibition booths were set up to showcase a variety of products and services. These included floriculture products from Bloom Hills Rwanda, household LP gas supply systems from JIBU Gas One, and ICT-oriented services provided by TOPPAN Rwanda. Additionally, Toyota and Mitsubishi vehicles were prominently displayed.
 
To further promote Japanese culture, guests were treated to an authentic culinary experience featuring diverse Japanese cuisine, including sushi, tempura, and yakitori, complemented by Japanese sake and other fine beverages.