Rwandan Woman Builds Ikinyarwanda Language Program

Denise Umuneza of Rwanda began teaching Ikinyarwanda to foreigners in 2010, and has since developed a full language education program with textbooks for all levels. Recognizing a gap in resources for non-native speakers, she created her own materials after initially teaching informal lessons in cafés. Umuneza, who holds a degree in translation, found existing resources were often religiously focused or didn’t reflect everyday conversation.

Her program now serves a diverse group including expats, visitors, diaspora families, and children reconnecting with their heritage. The need for children’s classes increased following the Covid-19 pandemic as diaspora families returned to Rwanda.

Umuneza also expresses concern about the declining use of Ikinyarwanda among young Rwandans, advocating for increased language education in schools and at home to preserve Rwandan identity and culture. Richard Hategekimana of the Rwanda Writers’ Federation supports her efforts, noting a bias towards foreign languages in academic settings.