Journalist and artist Dushimimana Jean de Dieu, popularly known as Dashim, has unveiled a new intellectual platform, the “Inzu y’Ibitabo Summit” (House of Books Summit) a monthly gathering created for book lovers, thinkers, and seekers of knowledge.
This month’s edition will spotlight Ben Nganji, the veteran journalist celebrated for his mastery of Inkirigito (a traditional Rwandan performance art), alongside poet Murekatete, whose work consistently advocates for personal transformation. Recently, Murekatete collaborated with Dr. Nsabi on the poem Arubatse, which further cemented her reputation as a voice for change.
Dashim explained that the summit was born out of the need to provide an alternative to the many events that focus mainly on leisure. “We wanted to establish a space where readers, thinkers, and knowledge seekers could gather on a regular basis,” he said. “While others may choose to party, dance, and laugh, we chose to nurture the mind through books, ideas, and meaningful conversations.”
According to Dashim, the summit serves a growing audience that craves intellectual nourishment in a world increasingly dominated by distractions. He describes this pursuit as “food for thought”something that heals, inspires, and cultivates better ways of thinking.
The theme for this edition is “It Will Not Always Be This Way” (Siko Bizahora). Dashim deliberately chose Nganji and Murekatete because their messages embody resilience and hope. “Almost 90% of Ben Nganji’s songs remind people that hardships are temporary,” Dashim noted. “His art discourages despair and pushes for positive change. Similarly, Murekatete’s poetry is rooted in transformation and optimism.”
The timing of the theme also resonates with World Suicide Prevention Month, observed from September 10 to October 10. Dashim emphasized that too many people make irreversible decisions in response to temporary challenges. “We want to remind people that emotional struggles do not last forever. Suicide is a permanent decision often made in the heat of passing emotions. Life changes there is always hope,” he said.
Alongside the headline performances, the summit will feature talks from respected scholars, motivational speakers, and spiritual leaders, including Venkat Gudipati (India), Dr. Rutangarwamaboko, Prof. Malonga Pacific, Dr. Francis Habumugisha, Coach Biseruka Abdulkalim, Evangelist Benurugo Clementine, and Coach Emmanuel Manirarora, among others.
This marks the second edition of the Inzu y’Ibitabo Summit, following its successful debut in late August 2025 at Saint Paul in Kigali. Once again, participants will embark on a collective journey of learning, reflection, and empowerment reinforcing the belief that “It Will Not Always Be This Way.”
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA
