Hundreds of Rwandans and friends of Rwanda on Friday celebrated the country's 23rd Liberation at the residence of Frank Mugambage, Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Uganda.

Uganda’s State Minister for regional cooperation Philemon Mateke, who was the chief guest said that Uganda recognizes the efforts of the Rwanda leadership in ensuring regional peace both within the East African Community and on the African continent.

Describing corruption as a cancer, the Minister commended government for its strong fight against the vice and called on African leaders to emulate the practice.

On his part, Mugambage said that the bilateral relations between Rwanda and Uganda are underpinned by the long historical relations and the immense value the two countries share.

"Uganda is a close neighbour and a steadfast partner in development. We have a shared destiny within the East African context and the continent at large including defending and safeguarding our shared interests together,” the High Commissioner said.

The ceremony was marked by the audience chanting patriotism songs that reminisced memories of the struggle by the RPA soldiers in liberating Rwanda twenty three years ago. Imena band and Ingenzi, a traditional cultural troupe were also at hand to entertain the vigorous audience.

"We hold this day special in our hearts because it marked a total transformation of our country after the RPF rescued it from Genocidal forces that had completely destroyed it,” said Francine Mukankusi, a Rwandan who travelled all the way from Mubende district to attend the ceremony.

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