Rwandans in South Africa honoured the sacrifices of the Rwanda Patriotic Army during the liberation struggle, which stopped the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, and ushered in a new era of national unity and healing.
In the Liberation Day celebrations held in Johannesburg on Friday, July 26, Rwandans, South African government officials and members of the diplomatic community reflected on the socioeconomic transformational journey that has seen Rwanda emerge from a shattered society to a resilient one.
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"For Rwandans, Liberation Day is a profound reminder of our past and a celebration of our resilience and progress,” said Rwanda’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Emmanuel Hategeka.
"It signifies the triumph of unity over division, and hope over despair. As we reflect on our journey, we are reminded of the collective effort and determination that has brought us to where we are today,” Hategeka said.
"The process of rebuilding an almost failed state meant restoring a nation from the ground up—physically, emotionally, and socially.”
He said over the past 30 years, Rwandans prioritised national unity, security and progress, under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.
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He added that the country is dedicated to ensuring peace in other countries, by contributing troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions.
"This commitment not only showcases our desire for a peaceful world but also our willingness to contribute to global stability,” Hategeka noted.
Hategeka noted that the history of the past 30 years had been marked by similarities for both Rwanda and South Africa, as the former stopped a genocide and the other was emerging from apartheid.
"This year marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa&039;s own liberation from apartheid,” he said. "The parallels between our histories are striking. Both nations have overcome immense adversity to forge paths of reconciliation, unity, and development.”
"Liberation is a journey, a marathon, not a sprint. It is an ongoing struggle for humankind—for better lives, for self-determination, for the freedom of choice, and for the capacity to shape and work towards our dreams.
"As we continue this journey together, let us ensure that we all benefit from our collective progress.”
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She stressed the commitment to continued collaboration and mutual support between the two countries.
Rwanda's Liberation Day is celebrated on July 4 at the national level. Members of the Rwandan community abroad organise events to celebrate Liberation Day in their respective countries of residence.