Today February1, Rwanda marks National Heroes’ Day. This year’s celebration will be marked under the theme: "Strive for heroism: build a better future.”

Celebrated heroes are classified into three categories; Imanzi, Imena and Ingenzi.

So far, no individual has has been placed in the Ingenzi category.

The Imanzi category consists of Maj. Gen Fred Gisa Rwigyema and the ‘Unknown Soldier’ who represents all the soldiers who died during the Liberation struggle.

The ‘Imena’ category consists of King Mutara III Rudahigwa Charles Léon Pierre, Michael Rwagasana, Agatha Uwiringiyimana, Felicité Niyitegeka, and the fallen students of Nyange Secondary School.

The Imena category also consists of the 40 survivors of the Nyange attack of March 18, 1997, during which seven students were killed after refusing to separate themselves along ethnic lines.

Nonetheless, according to the Chancellery for Heroes, National Orders and Decorations of Honors (CHENO), names of about 200 new nominees is under scrutiny to be added on the list of National heroes.

What does it require for someone to be considered a hero?

According to CHENO, to qualify as a National hero, one must be or must have displayed heroism values.

These values include: Bravery demonstrated in being fearless, supporting good practices, being able to point out and fight evil. Being patriotic, this is demonstrated in striving for sovereignty of the country and unity among its citizens.

A hero should be brave enough and be able to sacrifice own life fighting for the common interest and welfare of others. A hero should also be vigilant and find the truth behind things. CHENO also states that to be approved on the list of national heroes one should have a record of heroism acts admired by many.

Other attributes for someone to be considered as national hero include being exemplary in whatever you do, being honest and striving for truth even at the risk of your life, showcasing positive values in whatever you do and wherever you may be, and showing love to people without discrimination.

On the list under scrutiny, are names of people who are alive or dead presented by the public to CHENO, deemed to have done heroic acts.

Déo Nkusi, executive secretary of CHENO, said the search is still ongoing to identify new heroes.

He said, "We have about 200 nominees that we are still scrutinising to see if they fulfill the requirements to be classified among heroes. For some, the process was completed; and the list will be submitted to competent authorities for approval. Yet, those who have people whom they think have treasured heroism values can bring names to the chancellery for scrutiny.”

editorial@newtimes.co.rw