As a foreigner living in this remarkable land, I am constantly in awe of Rwanda's indomitable spirit and unwavering resilience. Today, on the occasion of Rwanda's Liberation Day, I am compelled to express my profound admiration and gratitude to this great nation and its people. Beyond the scenic beauty and vibrant culture, it is the story of Rwanda's liberation, written in blood and etched in the hearts of its citizens, that captivates the world.

A story written in blood and hearts:

History has a peculiar tendency to celebrate battles while overlooking the bloodshed that accompanies them. But in Rwanda, the commemoration of liberation holds a different meaning. It serves as a poignant reminder that victories are not won solely on the battlefield but through the sacrifices made by brave souls. As we celebrate this significant milestone, our attention is drawn to those courageous individuals who gave their lives for the freedom of many.

Heroes remembered, heroes honored:

To all the heroes who birthed this liberation, we offer our deepest appreciation and respect. Some of you rest in identified graves, your final resting places marked with reverence. We remember your sacrifice and honor your memory. It is important to acknowledge that many of these heroes were mere teenagers, yet they exemplified the true essence of eldership through their unwavering patriotism. Their spirit lives on, an enduring testament to the power of dedication and love for one's nation.

The eternal flame of patriotism:

Amidst the heroes who have passed, there are still those among us who carry the torch of liberation. You are the living witnesses, the storytellers who preserve the legacy for future generations. For 29 years and counting, you have sustained the liberation, ensuring that the flame of patriotism never extinguishes. Your resilience, wisdom, and unwavering commitment continue to guide Rwanda on its path towards progress and prosperity.

A nation transformed:

Rwanda, once scarred by adversity, has risen from the ashes like a phoenix. Today, it stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration to nations around the world. The transformation achieved in a relatively short span is a testament to the tenacity and dedication of its people. The country's remarkable strides in fostering peace, promoting cleanliness, ensuring stability, and providing a safe environment for investment have captured global attention.

As a foreigner residing in Rwanda, I am humbled and privileged to witness the tremendous achievements of this extraordinary nation. The liberation, inscribed in the history of Rwanda through the bloodshed and engraved in the hearts of its people, reminds us all of the power of sacrifice, dedication, and the understanding that we are our own solution. Today, on Rwanda's Liberation Day, let us join hands in honoring the heroes, both fallen and living, who have paved the way for a brighter future. Rwanda, may the patriotic spirit you demonstrated endure forever.

To the young generation of Rwanda, it is important to recognize that the freedom and opportunities you enjoy today were once the dreams of your fathers. It was not merely a vision they wistfully spoke of, but something they fought for with unwavering determination to bring it home. In this present day, you are fortunate to be born into a country where freedom is inherent—a privilege that was not granted to your grandmothers, grandfathers, and even some of your parents. However, let us not forget that this hard-won freedom came at the expense of other people's lives. They made the ultimate sacrifice, willingly offering their lives for our freedom and the stability we cherish. As the inheritors of their legacy, it is crucial to reflect on the question: What are you using your life for? How are you sustaining and building upon what they fought so valiantly for? There is no greater calling than to be a patriot, to stand firmly on the side of your country and its development, to contribute your skills, passion, and dedication towards nurturing a brighter future for Rwanda and upholding the ideals of liberation.

*I dedicate the below poem to you, the people of Rwanda, dead and alive*

In a land once fled, now sought with desire,

Rwanda stands tall, a nation to admire.

From chaos to calm, it transformed its fate,

Through sacrifice profound, freedom did await.

Your story, written in blood and in hearts,

Unfading, unyielding, it defies false arts.

No lies on paper, no pen can erase,

The bond forged in blood, firmly in place.

A testament to resilience, unwavering and strong,

Your journey inspires, as history's song.

Blood remains thicker, a testament true,

Unremovable, unyielding, forever in view.

The ink may fade, the paper may tear,

But the spirit of Rwanda, beyond compare.

A beacon of hope, a nation that knows,

That truth conquers lies, and love ever flows.

Thank you for the sacrifice, the price you paid,

To free this great land, where progress is made.

May your legacy guide us, on paths yet untrod,

To believe in ourselves, and rise with a nod.

In the celebration of battles, history often forgets,

The blood that was shed, the ultimate debts.

As we rejoice in this liberation's embrace,

We honor those heroes, their lives we can't erase.

To the courageous souls who paved the way,

We express our deepest gratitude today.

Though some lie in identified graves,

Their sacrifices echo through time's waves.

Many of you were teenagers, young and bold,

Yet showed us wisdom worth more than gold.

True eldership defined by love for the land,

Not just by age, but by the patriot's stand.

Long live the patriotic spirit you displayed,

For freedom's cause, fearlessly you laid.

Some among us still bear witness today,

Sustaining the liberation, guiding the way.

To the living heroes, we offer our cheer,

Your stories inspire, year after year.

For 29 years and beyond, you've been strong,

Long live the spirit that keeps Rwanda's song.

On this Liberation Day, let us all stand,

With Rwanda, united, hand in hand.

For your story of courage, we forever salute,

A reminder to all, that liberation takes root.

Chikomo is the founder and CEO of the DUCE Leadership Initiative - a Mandela Centennial Scholar and a graduate of the African Leadership University