KIGALI - United States citizens in Rwanda were yesterday joined at their embassy by government officials and members of the diplomatic corps accredited to Kigali to celebrate the 224th American Day of Independence.

The day is usually marked on July 4 but the US embassy shifted the event two days before as it coincides with Rwanda’s Liberation Day.

Addressing the guests, Anne Casper, the Deputy Chief of Mission, commended the relationship between Rwanda and the US saying that, just like the declaration of American Independence asserted a cornerstone for values and goals for the American society, the Rwandan Liberation Day led to a remarkable transformation and a rebirth of a free Rwandan society.

"In less than a single generation, determination has overcome despair and Rwanda is now a country full of hope. Rwanda’s success is rooted in a unifying vision, a commitment and tirelessness from the people to transform their society,” Casper said.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Eugene Munyakayanza, commended the U.S for its determination in supporting Rwanda’s policies and projects.

"The coincidence of the attainment of independence by the U.S. on 4th July and the Liberation of Rwanda on the same day, goes further to remind us of the bravery and selflessness of a few people who were able to change the course of events in history and offer freedom and liberty to their peoples,” Munyakayanzi said.

In the United States, Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain.

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