Rwanda Day in Boston was inspiring

Editor, I was deeply inspired by the spirit and enthusiasm that characterised the just-concluded Rwanda Day 2012 in Boston, Massachusetts in the United States of America.

Sunday, September 23, 2012
It was all smiles at the Rwanda Day 2012 in Boston, Massachusetts . The New Times / Courtesy.

Editor,I was deeply inspired by the spirit and enthusiasm that characterised the just-concluded Rwanda Day 2012 in Boston, Massachusetts in the United States of America.The two-day event, which took place on Friday and climaxed on Saturday with a great speech by President Paul Kagame, was an opportunity for the Rwandan Diaspora community to reconnect with their country, get updated on every progress back home, and rededicate themselves to continue supporting their country.I was particularly touched by the speech of the chairman of the Rwandan Diaspora in Canada, Dr Egide Karuranga, who proved that Rwandans living abroad are kept in the loop when he outlined the various strides this country has made over the past 18 years, attributing the tremendous progress to the hard work and resilience of the people of Rwanda and the country’s leadership. He spoke fondly of his country and urged members of the Diaspora to represent Rwanda in the most dignified manner at any time, and to continue defending it whenever it comes under attack by detractors.The mood in the house was inspiring to say the least. But the highlight of the entire event, was, as expected, President Kagame’s speech, through which he proved – once again – that he is a leader of the people and that everything he does he does it for the common good of Rwanda and its citizens.His invitation to Rwandans in the Diaspora to play a crucial role in the country’s development process was well received, with constant standing ovations from the audience. The cheer grew even louder when the President highlighted the country’s achievements against all odds, and when he stated that the journey continues, a message that resonated well with the event’s theme, "Agaciro, the Journey Continues...”It was a great feeling, not just for those who attended the function, but also for the millions of Rwandans who followed it live from far-away, including back home – in Rwanda.Long live Rwanda, long live the people of Rwanda!George Mugabe,Kigali