Rwanda has launched a new digital heritage initiative that will use 3D technology to preserve the authenticity of museum collections and historical artifacts across the country.
The project is being implemented by the Rwanda Heritage Academy in partnership with Global Digital Heritage Inc., an organization specializing in training and digital preservation of cultural heritage.
The initiative began with the training of 17 participants, including staff from museums across Rwanda, who will use the technology to digitally document and preserve cultural artifacts while also training others.
Speaking to journalists on 4 August 2026, participants said the training would help safeguard Rwanda’s cultural heritage and improve public access to the country’s history.
Jean Bosco Ngara, who works at the Rwanda Heritage Academy’s Museum of Art in Kanombe, Kigali, said the training would strengthen preservation efforts.
“The training we received will help us perform our work more effectively. We were trained in Huye, and when we return to our museum, we will digitally preserve cultural artifacts to ensure they are not permanently lost.”
Peace Mutoni, who works at the Musanze Cultural Tourism Centre, said the technology would make Rwanda’s history more accessible, particularly to young people.
She explained that museum staff have been trained to create highly accurate three-dimensional digital replicas of artifacts by scanning them from every angle.
“We can scan museum objects and create digital replicas that accurately reflect their original appearance.”
Mutoni added that the technology will also allow people to explore museum collections remotely through online platforms without travelling.
“This will help preserve our history even in the event of disasters such as fires, while enabling more people, especially young people, to learn about Rwanda’s cultural heritage.”
Dr. Herbert Maschner, Director of Global Digital Heritage, said the organization is committed to helping countries develop local expertise in using digital technology to preserve their cultural heritage, adding that similar initiatives are underway in several other countries.
Professor Robert Masozera, Chairperson of the Rwanda Heritage Academy, said the project would help promote Rwanda’s culture and heritage internationally.
RADIOTV10