RILF : les Rencontres Internationales du Livre
Les Rencontres Internationales du Livre (RILF) is a literary festival held every year in Kigali during Francophonie Month.
Organized by the French Institute of Rwanda, RILF has become, since 2022, a key event in the literary scene of East Africa.
This festival highlights the French language and books as tools for dialogue, reflection, and openness to the world.
A festival at the heart of cultural dialogue
RILF offers a unique meeting space for Rwandan and international authors, book professionals, and the general public.
Through a rich and accessible program, the festival aims to:
• Promote reading for everyone
• Showcase authors from the region and beyond
• Encourages discussions on contemporary issues
• Place books at the center of society
Activities include:
• Public readings
• Panels and debates
• Writing workshops
• Meetings with author
Focus on the 2026 edition: “Literature as a driver of citizenship”
The 5th edition of RILF took place from March 25 to 28, 2026. This edition explored the role of literature, theatre, and poetry in shaping critical thinking and civic awareness.
Highlights of the edition:
● Panels and debates
Discussions on cultural and historical transformations, the role of women in Rwandan literature, and the place of poetry in society.
● “Lunch-Book” concept
Intimate meetings with authors such as Scholastique Mukasonga and Gisèle Pineau over lunch at Kigali Public Library.
● Professional masterclasses
Workshops led by renowned figures such as Dieudonné Niangouna, Marc Alexandre Oho Bambe, Hakim Bah, Diane Chavelet, and Jean-Michel Djian.
● Youth focus
A dedicated day for students, featuring meetings with children’s authors to encourage reading among younger audiences.
● Book fair
A space showcasing local booksellers and publishers, promoting regional literary production.
Programs of previous editions:
Why take part in RILF?
• Meet renowned authors
• Discover the richness of Francophone literature
• Take part in enriching cultural exchanges
• Encourage reading and literary creation
• Experience a major cultural event in Kigali