The Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA) Philatelic Service is responsible for the production and distribution of postage stamps in Rwanda. This service plays a crucial role in promoting the country’s culture, history, and achievements through its stamp designs. In this article, we will provide a general overview of the RURA Philatelic Service, its history, and some of its most important and well-known stamps and designs.
General Overview of the RURA Philatelic Service
The RURA Philatelic Service was established in 2002 under the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority Act. Its main objective is to manage the production, distribution, and sale of postage stamps in Rwanda. The service is responsible for designing and printing stamps that reflect the country’s culture, history, and achievements. It also works closely with other postal administrations to promote international cooperation and exchange of stamps.
The RURA Philatelic Service offers a wide range of services to stamp collectors, including the sale of stamps, first-day covers, and other philatelic products. It also provides a subscription service for collectors who wish to receive new stamp issues regularly. The service also organizes stamp exhibitions and events to promote stamp collecting and raise awareness about the country’s postal history.
History of the RURA Philatelic Service
The history of the RURA Philatelic Service dates back to 1962 when Rwanda gained independence from Belgium. The first stamps issued by the country were overprinted stamps from the Belgian Congo. In 1964, Rwanda issued its first independent stamps featuring the country’s coat of arms. Since then, the RURA Philatelic Service has been responsible for issuing stamps that reflect the country’s history, culture, and achievements.
One of the most significant moments in the history of the RURA Philatelic Service was in 1994 when the country was devastated by the genocide. The service continued to issue stamps during this difficult time, and the stamps reflected the country’s struggle for peace and reconciliation. These stamps are now highly sought after by collectors and are a testament to the resilience of the Rwandan people.
Notable Stamps and Designs from Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority
The RURA Philatelic Service has issued many notable stamps over the years, each with its unique design and significance. One of the most famous stamps is the 1964 «Independence» stamp, which features the country’s coat of arms and symbolizes the country’s freedom from colonial rule. Another notable stamp is the 1994 «Reconciliation» stamp, which depicts two hands holding a dove, representing the country’s journey towards peace and unity.
In recent years, the RURA Philatelic Service has also issued stamps that celebrate the country’s achievements and milestones. For example, the 2018 «Visit Rwanda» stamp promotes tourism in the country, while the 2019 «Kwita Izina» stamp commemorates the annual gorilla naming ceremony, which promotes conservation efforts in Rwanda.
The RURA Philatelic Service plays a crucial role in promoting Rwanda’s culture, history, and achievements through its stamp designs. With a rich history and a wide range of services for collectors, the service continues to attract stamp enthusiasts from all over the world.
To learn more about the RURA Philatelic Service and its latest stamp issues, visit their website at https://i-posita.rw/.