With this year’s theme, ‘Rwanda’s journey continues’, the Rwandan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Christophe Bazivamo, who spoke in Abuja on Saturday paid tribute to the resilience and indomitable spirit of the Rwandan people.
Bazivamo honoured the sacrifices made for freedom and the bravery of the Rwandan Patriotic Army, which played a pivotal role in rescuing countless lives and liberating the nation.
The ambassador highlighted the pact of trust, ‘igihango,’ as fundamental in fostering unity and driving the country’s progress.
“On this momentous occasion, we honour the resilience of the Rwandan people and the sacrifices made for freedom. The bravery of the Rwandan Patriotic Army, who rescued countless lives, symbolizes our indomitable spirit.
“We express our deepest gratitude to those who liberated our nation and the heroes who gave their lives for a free Rwanda.
“Today, Rwanda is stronger and more united than ever. We have rebuilt a nation that values every citizen, with trust and cooperation as cornerstones. Our pact of trust, “igihango,” has been fundamental in fostering unity and driving our progress,” he noted.
Reflecting on Rwanda’s journey, Bazivamo noted the progress achieved despite numerous challenges.
He praised the transformation of the security forces, which have evolved from symbols of oppression to guardians of peace, earning the trust and respect of the Rwandan people.
The ambassador also highlighted Rwanda’s active role in humanitarian efforts across Africa and beyond.
He stressed the importance of addressing underlying political issues through dialogue and peaceful resolutions to conflicts.
“Our journey has not been easy, but we have achieved remarkable progress. Our security forces, once symbols of oppression, are now guardians of peace, earning the trust and respect of the Rwandan people through their dedicated service.
“Rwanda has a history of extending a helping hand to those in need across Africa and beyond. While actively involved in humanitarian efforts, we recognize that lasting solutions require addressing underlying political issues.
“We advocate for political dialogue and peaceful resolutions to conflicts,” the ambassador noted.
As he celebrated Rwanda’s progress, the ambassador also acknowledged the importance of strong bilateral ties,” he added.
Bazivamo expressed gratitude for the support from international partnerships, including Nigeria, and committed to deepening these relationships.
In his remarks, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, praised Rwanda for its remarkable transformation and its role as a source of inspiration for the African continent.
Tuggar represented by a former Ambassador to Sudan, Safiu Olaniyan, said highlighted the country’s journey from a history of despair to its current status as a symbol of hope and progress.
“Rwanda remains a beacon of hope for Africa. Rwanda emerged from the ashes of hopelessness to what we are seeing today and we are celebrating today,” he said.
He underscored Rwanda’s contributions to African unity and development. “It is because of the hope Rwanda has given to Africa that we are all living together here today and celebrating Rwanda. Rwanda is leading the way to make things happen in Africa.”
He urged other African nations to recognise and seize the opportunities available on the continent.
“Look at the opportunities Africa presents. You have all the potential. You have the capacity to create this Africa that you want to live in. The Rwanda you have today is an example. Let us follow it and we will have no reason to be afraid.”
Rwanda at the national level marked the 30th anniversary of its liberation on July 4, 2024, with a grand celebration at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, the Rwandan capital.
The event, known locally as Kwibohora, commemorates the end of the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi, a tragic event that claimed more than one million lives.
The Rwandan Patriotic Army, the armed wing of the Rwandan Patriotic Front, brought the genocide to an end on this day, marking a new era for the nation.
According to Xinhua, the celebration featured a military parade, showcasing the strength and unity of Rwanda’s defence and security forces.
Thousands of Rwandans, including government officials, members of the Rwanda Defense Force, Rwanda National Police, and other security organs gathered to honour the day.
“Today, we come to the end of our period of commemoration and celebrate the liberation of our country. Rwandans today are better and stronger than we have ever been.
“Our army and security forces are a powerful symbol of unity and safety,” Rwandan President Paul Kagame said at the event.
