Young Rwandans are urged to prioritize their own cultural values over the increasingly adopted westernized behaviours, as Rwanda prepares to mark its thirty-first commemoration of National Heroes Day on February 1. ALSO READ: ‘It will take heroism’ to achieve Vision 2050 targets – CHENO official Nicolas Rwaka, an official at the Chancellery for Heroes, National Orders, and Decorations of Honour (CHENO), has expressed concern over the youth’s declining interest in preserving Rwandan cultural heritage and heroism values. This shift, he warns, risks eroding the country’s rich heritage and ideals of heroism. Rwaka revealed these concerns during an interview with The New Times as he observed that an obsession with Western culture and material pursuits undermines the inculcation of patriotism, voluntarism, and civic engagement among the country’s youth. “Some young people consider their culture outdated, choosing instead to embrace modernity as defined by the internet and global trends. This mindset detracts from the bravery and civic-mindedness that are fundamental to heroism,” Rwaka said. ALSO READ: Heroes Day is a reminder of our ability to stand up for what is right – Kagame Despite these challenges, Rwaka remains optimistic. He emphasized that Rwanda’s leadership, exemplified by President Paul Kagame, serves as a living testament to the heroism values the youth should emulate. Efforts are underway to integrate heroism lessons into school curricula and civic education programmes like Itorero, fostering a structured approach to instil these values in future generations. ALSO READ: How national heroes are selected Sister Helene Nayituriki, 69, a retired former headmistress of Lycee Notre Dame de Citeaux, a secondary school in Kigali, who was recognized in 2007 for her heroic actions to rescue people during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, shared insights on heroism. Nayituriki who was awarded the “Campaign Against Genocide” medal by President Kagame underscored that acts of heroism should not be performed with expectations of reward. “Doing good should come from the heart, not with anticipation of recognition. Those who participated in the genocide now live with regret and lack inner peace, while those who performed acts of kindness find solace and pride in their actions,” Nayituriki said. ALSO READ: Rwanda's leading lights who exemplified heroism She called on the youth to eschew the negative examples of the past and instead draw inspiration from individuals who upheld humanity during difficult times. Nayituriki stressed that nurturing heroism begins at home, where parents must instil values of love and peace in their children. She encouraged the youth to pursue knowledge not merely for certificates but to acquire wisdom and practical skills that contribute to personal and societal growth. She also highlighted the importance of collaboration and community support in achieving meaningful progress. Three decades of celebration Rwanda’s National Heroes Day emerged after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, marking a turning point in the country’s journey toward unity and reconciliation. The event traces its roots to 1995, when the government began reflecting on the need to honour individuals who contributed to rebuilding the nation. The inaugural National Heroes Day was officially celebrated in 2001, with heroes categorized into three groups: “Imanzi” (supreme heroes), “Imena” (notable heroes), and “Ingenzi” (emerging heroes). Achievements Since its inception, National Heroes Day has evolved into a nationwide celebration, extending to villages and the diaspora. Local communities now recognize individuals for outstanding achievements at the grassroots level, fostering a culture of appreciation for heroism. ALSO READ: A king’s legacy that will forever live on Rutsobe Nsengiyumva, a father of three who has lived in Indiana, United States, for 17 years expressed the pride he feels in commemorating Heroes Day as a member of Rwanda’s diaspora community. “Heroism is a legacy inherited from the past, shaped by the sacrifices of those who stood up for our country. In our generation, as part of the Rwandan diaspora, we reflect on the bravery of the giants we honour as heroes. We draw inspiration from their values and ideas, standing on their shoulders as we celebrate heroism,” he said. “This is a time to reflect on what has been achieved in Rwanda, understand our roots, acknowledge the progress made, and consider how we can contribute to the nation’s journey and its ongoing transformation.” Nsengiyumva talked about the formation of various organizations and platforms within the diaspora, which enable Rwandans to maintain their cultural identity. These spaces provide opportunities to gather, interact, and engage in traditional practices such as Rwandan dances. Significant national days are observed with great reverence, reinforcing their connection to their homeland. ALSO READ: Heroes Day: Kagame tasks youth to sustain the Rwandan spirit Rwanda’s recognition of outstanding achievers has also expanded since 2006. In the past, outstanding achievers were not adequately acknowledged, Rwaka noted. During the colonial era and even during the 1994 Genocide, individuals were often recognized for acts of divisionism or segregation, including atrocities committed against others. Those who exemplified virtue, courage, and altruism were rarely celebrated. Following the Genocide, we decided to rectify this by formally honouring individuals who have made exceptional contributions, Rwaka said. Medals such as the Liberation Medal, “Uruti”, and the Genocide Medal, “Umurinzi”, have been awarded to individuals and groups for their extraordinary contributions. In 2017, additional medals were introduced, including Agaciro Medal for Heads of State and leaders of international organizations, and Igihango Friendship Medal for promoting Rwanda’s global relationships. Cultural and professional excellence are recognized through the Indangamirwa Medal, promoting Rwandan culture, and Indashyikirwa Medal, celebrating exceptional achievements in various fields. The Bravery Medal honours extraordinary acts of courage. ALSO READ: Heroes Day from a democrat’s perspective Efforts to promote heroism among the youth include school-based initiatives such as heroism clubs and competitions. These activities aim to educate students about the significance of Rwanda’s heroes and inspire them to adopt similar values. The story of Nyange secondary school students who refused to divide themselves along ethnic lines during the 1994 genocide serves as a poignant example of courage and unity. Diane Bahoze, a 25-year-old journalist from Muhanga District, recounted her experience participating in and winning Rwanda’s national heroes’ competition in 2020 while studying at the Institut Catholique de Kabgayi (ICK), describing it as a transformative opportunity. ALSO READ: What heroism means for Rwandan creatives She told The New Times that the competition allowed her to use songs to highlight the significance of Rwandan history and instil a sense of pride and responsibility in her peers. “It was a platform to showcase our understanding of Rwanda’s history and inspire others. It also provided me an opportunity to learn from others and contribute to the country’s development,” she said. Bahoze urged young people to embrace patriotism and engage actively in community-building efforts, criticizing those who dismiss historical discussions or community initiatives like Umuganda as unimportant. She emphasized the importance of appreciating Rwanda’s heritage, learning from the past, and taking an active role in shaping the nation’s future. Sites like the National Heroes Mausoleum in Remera, Kigali, and the Nyange school mausoleum serve as educational hubs, preserving the legacy of heroism for future generations. Others include the Rubavu heroes mausoleum and the Kagitumba heroes historical site. The mausoleums serve as educational and inspirational spaces, ensuring that the values of patriotism, resilience, and unity are passed on to future generations. Plans are underway to establish additional historical landmarks to further honour Rwanda’s cultural and heroic heritage. The focus remains on inspiring the younger generation to embrace heroism as a way of life.
