On October 1, 1990, Rwandans, mainly youths born in exile and later joined by those from inside the country, embarked on a struggle to liberate the country from the bondage of a bad leadership that had condemned a large section of nationals to a perpetual life of refuge.

The journey to liberate the country was not a simple one given the enemy the fighters faced but determination, a clarity of purpose and good leadership helped Rwanda Patriotic Army, the armed wing of RPF-Inkotanyi, to not only remove the regime, but also stop the Genocide against the Tutsi.

In these previously unpublished pictures, The New times brings you some moments captured during the struggle.

RPA fighters during the struggle in the Volcanoes National Park. The bamboo thicket gave the fighters cover to conduct their operations against the enemy.

RPA Soldiers guarde the studios of Radio Muhabura during the struggle. The outlet was a major mobilisation tool.

Women cadres of RPF-Inkotanyi during a meeting in this undated photo in the liberation struggle. Women were a crucial component of the struggle.

RPA soldiers work on a computer.

RPA soldiers comfort  Genocide survivors whom they had just rescued in Bugesera District in 1994. Bugesera was one of the worst hit regions during the Genocide against the Tutsi.

Sheikh Abdul-Karim Harerimana (in dark jacket) with unidentified individuals during the liberation struggle. Harerimana was among the senior cadres of the struggle.

RPA soldiers at Kigali International Airport after it was overrun by the then rebel force in 1994.

RPA soldiers in an overnight morale-boosting session  in early 90s.

A group of  RPA soldiers during a seminar in Rushaki  early 1994. Situated in the current Gicumbi District, Rushaki was one of the key bases of the liberation struggle .