Tomorrow marks the 17th anniversary of the liberation that brought an end to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

This is a special day in the history of our country. It marked the end of politics of hate, genocidal pogroms and the banishing of state-inspired killings.

On that date, with the liberation of Kigali and most parts of the country from the genocidal government, its Interahamwe militia and ex FAR, the people of Rwanda set on an irreversible path of recovery and dignity as a people.

The struggle to liberate the country and end the genocide against the Tutsi was a justified one; after all other alternatives had been exhausted. It required determination, discipline and sacrifice, with many paying the ultimate price so, that the country could be free.

Those who wanted to maintain the status quo and keep Rwandans in bondage, sought to exterminate the Tutsi as a means to that end. But they were mistaken. The sheer determination of Rwandan people to defeat that clique, led to the liberation of the country.

From such dedication, many worthwhile lessons have been learned: With determination and single minded focus, adversity can be overcome. This therefore, should inspire Rwandans to aim higher in their aspirations as a people.

All should take pride in the liberation knowing very well that they own the struggle for their freedom. The patriotism and dedication to freedom that was reflected in the struggle should be a hallmark of every citizen.

Ends