TheMuseumsLab 2026, a week-long international conference, kicked off on September 21, 2026, in Kigali, Rwanda. The event, organized by the German Museum of Natural History (MfN) in collaboration with African countries and supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), brings together 75 experts from 30 countries. The conference aims to enhance knowledge, collaboration, and the sharing of experiences in preserving cultural heritage.
The conference was officially opened on September 21, 2026, and will run until September 26, 2026. Ambassador Professor Robert Masozera, Chair of the Board, emphasized that hosting TheMuseumsLab 2026 offers Rwanda a valuable opportunity to exchange knowledge with international experts in museum management. He highlighted the benefits of such an event for Rwanda, particularly for institutions responsible for preserving heritage and culture.
On the first day of the conference, participants visited the National Museum of Rwanda's Genocide and Art exhibit in Kanombe. They viewed various artworks and received explanations about the history and significance of the exhibits, which focus on Rwanda's history and development. Genius Tevera, a lecturer at Great Zimbabwe University, expressed his fascination with the exhibits, particularly a map of Rwanda created by an artist who predicted the country's rapid development and technological advancements.
Tevera noted that his visit to Rwanda provided him with a deeper understanding of the country's history and its vision for the future. He observed that Rwanda takes pride in its history and has made significant progress, exceeding his expectations. Professor Dr. Facil Tesfay, Chair of the International Committee for Education and Research at TheMuseumsLab, stated that the conference aims to encourage participants to reflect on how history and heritage can be used to build a better future.
Meryem Korun, global coordinator of TheMuseumsLab, praised Rwanda for its enthusiasm and commitment to hosting the conference. She noted that the country was chosen for its eagerness to engage with the international community and share its experiences. During their week-long stay in Rwanda, participants will visit various museums, engage with artists, and share knowledge on Rwandan culture and history.
The conference's theme, "Building Futures from Memory: Museums and Memorial Sites as Agents," highlights the role of museums and historical sites in utilizing cultural heritage to shape the future. This event marks the continuation of TheMuseumsLab, which began in 2021 in Germany and has since been held in several African countries, including South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, and Ethiopia.
TheMuseumsLab 2026 provides a platform for experts to discuss the significance of museums and historical sites in preserving cultural heritage and promoting development. The conference is expected to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among participants, ultimately contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage and the building of a better future.
Key points
- TheMuseumsLab 2026 brings together 75 experts from 30 countries to discuss preserving cultural heritage and building the future.
- The conference aims to enhance knowledge, collaboration, and the sharing of experiences in preserving cultural heritage.
- The event is organized by the German Museum of Natural History (MfN) in collaboration with African countries and supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
