Diplomatic corps and Rwandans in Washington D.C joined Rwanda in celebrating its 28th Liberation anniversary last week. The ceremony, which was organised by the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in Washington D.C, had attendees taken through a detailed account of the journey that the RPA Inkotanyi undertook to defeat the genocidal regime, bringing to an end the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi on 4 July. The Permanent Representative of the African Union to the United States, Ambassador Hilda Suka-Mafudze, commended Rwanda’s achievements in different sectors. She hailed the contribution of the Government of Rwanda for showing the world that women are cornerstones in the development of nations. The Rwandan ambassador to the U.S, Mathilde Mukantabana, said liberation struggle sought to build a country suitable for all, adding that Rwanda’s experience was and is ‘an African one.’ “Therefore, even the liberation we are talking about today can’t be isolated. We are open to learn and share lessons-together, we stand a chance before the challenges facing our world -if we stick together and take responsibility for our fate.” Mukantabana said: “Kwibohora means to unshackle oneself. It’s a continuous journey our country has embarked on under the abiding principle of people-based governance.” She concluded by urging youth to embrace their heritage, draw inspiration from those who came before them, and make use of their talents to build a better Rwanda, a better Africa, and a better world for all. Cathy Rwivanga, vice president of Rwandan Community in the United States highlighted how liberation in Rwanda was achieved through great sacrifice guided by a vision of a better society. She challenged members of the Rwandan diaspora to be part of the country’s progress and ensure to be great ambassadors of their country.
