Preparations for the eighth edition of the Pan African Dance Festival (Fespad), slated for February 23 to March 2, are in high gear.

The festival is being organised by the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and the Ministry of Sports and Culture.

This year's competition to be held under the theme "The spirit of expression," will attract 34 countries, RDB's head of Tourism and Conservation, Rica Rwigamba said at a news briefing on Wednesday.

"Besides celebrating African cultural diversity, this year's Fespad is yet another opportunity for Rwanda to showcase massive investment potential in tourism and the creative arts industry," Rwigamba said.

Nigeria, Tanzania, Madagascar and Guinea have already confirmed participation. RDB officials said more are yet to confirm.

Rwigamba called on the public to take part in the planned activities to identify the best symbols of the country saying it was the right time to showcase Rwanda's heritage.

Laurent Makuza, head of the culture department at the Ministry of Sports and Culture, said the festival was an opportunity for African countries to learn from each other.