Museveni, Zenawi, Nyerere to receive national honours

KIGALI - President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi of Federal Republic of Ethiopia and the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere of Tanzania will be honoured for their contribution in liberating Rwanda, 15 years ago. The three leaders will also be honoured for their tireless efforts in promoting a campaign against Genocide this Saturday during celebrations to mark National Liberation Day. President Paul Kagame will decorate Museveni, Zenawi and the late Nyerere with the “Uruti” medal which is Rwanda’s National Liberation Medal. The three leaders will also be decorated with “Umurinzi” medal,Rwanda’s Campaign Against Genocide Medal. Mrs Maria Nyerere, the late president’s wife, will receive the posthumous medal on behalf of her husband. “This is a special time for Rwanda to celebrate achievements and recommit to build a new and better future,” Minister of Information Louise Mushikiwabo, told The New Times. “This seemed like the right time to honour those who have in one way or another contributed to our liberation. We are thankful for their countries and their citizens for having supported Rwanda’s cause. They have been there when Rwanda needed them.” President Museveni and Prime Minister Zenawi are expected in Kigali today. This will mark the first time medals will be awarded to foreign dignitaries for their support to Rwanda’s liberation struggle. Previously, medals have been conferred upon Rwandan citizens, both military and civilians for their heroic roles in Rwanda’s recent history. Last year, Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) awarded medals to forty-nine war heroes, for their bravery and resilience in the campaign to liberate the country. President Paul Kagame was awarded the Rwanda Defence Forces “Order of Honour” for his role in leading the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) struggle that liberated the country in 1994. The medal is the country’s most prestigious award. Ends