Rwanda to host global rights forum

KIGALI - Rwanda will become the first country on the African continent to host the forthcoming global Inter-generational Forum on Human Rights slated for January 2, 2010 in Kigali. Addressing a press conference yesterday, the president of Rwanda Human rights Commission (NHRC), Sylvie Zainab Kayitesi, said that Rwanda is honoured to host a global and recognized forum. “We are honoured to host this international forum that brings together rights activists and young leaders across the world. It provides an opportunity to learn from each other as we share experiences. It will be a moment of assuring our commitments on appropriate values as global citizens,” she said. On his part, the forum’s chair, Dr. Amii Omara-Otunnu, highlighted that Rwanda has achieved amazing milestones in the process of rebuilding itself and therefore deserves a global solidarity. “We are coming here not in beauty explorations, but to pay our tributes and ascertain our solidarity of strengths to the people of Rwanda, who for the last fifteen years have proved exemplary,” he noted. He added that the country is setting an example to the world over its outstanding leadership, reconciliation, commitment to fighting corruption, gender mainstreaming as well as incredible records of human rights. Speaking to The New Times, one participant from Burma, Tim Aye Hardy, said that from the experience of previous forums, they bring such committed, inspiring and passionate persons who dictate change in a society. The forum is expected to bring together participants from over 40 countries across the world, among them, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, South African Desmond Tutu who will be bringing a peace message to young leaders. The nine day forum will also see participants provide communal services in Huye, Nyamagabe, Nyaruguru and Bugesera districts. Ends

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Rwanda to host global rights forum