Rwandans have lauded Kenya for being a key and reliable partner over the years and commended the existing relations between the two countries.

"Kenya has been a major partner in our reconstruction and development journey. We thank the Kenyan leadership, the government, and the people of Kenya for the strong bonds of friendship and the unwavering support that has enabled robust trade and investments, and the people-to-people ties that have continued to grow stronger over the years,” said Donne Besigye, Chargé d’Affaires at the Rwanda High Commission in Kenya.

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He was speaking at an event of celebrating 29 years of Rwanda’s Liberation, an occasion that had brought together more than 400 people including the Rwandan community living in Kenya, members of the diplomatic corps, and friends of Rwanda.

The annual celebration is observed on July 04, a date on which the former Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) stopped the Genocide against the Tutsi.

According to Besigye, the day holds a special place in the hearts of Rwandans, as it represents the beginning of freedom from oppression and discrimination, and marks the rebirth of a nation that all Rwandans are proud to call home.

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"As we celebrate Rwanda’s achievements in the last 29 years, we pay tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for every citizen of Rwanda to live a dignified life. To the young generation, it is your time to uphold the ideals of the previous generation and to ensure a continuation of principles that lay the foundations of the liberated Rwanda,” he said.

Remarkable strides made by Kigali over the last 29 years were also reiterated by Ambassador Catherine Mogaka, Director UN, Multilateral Affairs & Candidatures at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who was representing the Government of Kenya at the event.

"Rwanda’s commitment to national unity and reconciliation is truly remarkable. Furthermore, Rwanda’s achievements in socio-economic development are truly commendable,” she said, adding that "Rwanda’s success story is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and the determination of its people.”

Mogaka also commended the long-standing friendly relations and high-value cooperation between Rwanda and Kenya, at both bilateral and multilateral level.

"Indeed, this partnership has brought substantial benefits to our peoples and nations,” she underscored.