Rwanda a model of reconstruction–Soyinka

Renowned Nigerian poet and author, Wole Soyinka, has said Rwanda is a model of reconstruction.“Rwanda which is one of the younger independent states in Africa, must be regarded as a model of how great human trauma can be transformed to commence true reconstruction of people. Human trauma can lead to stunted growth and mass withdrawal,” Wole Soyinka said.He was speaking Saturday night during a state banquet hosted by President Paul Kagame and the First Lady, Jeanette Kagame, to mark 50th Independence Anniversary in Kigali.Soyinka, also a playwright, was the first African to be awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature, in 1986, and is regarded as one of the world’s finest.“Given the scale of trauma caused by the genocide, Rwanda has indicated that however thin the hope of a community can be, a hero always emerges. Although no one can dare claim that it is now a perfect state, and that no more work is needed, Rwanda has risen from the ashes as a model or truth and reconciliation,” Soyinka said.President Kagame described Soyinka’s address as “thought provoking” and expressed appreciation to foreign guests for joining Rwanda to celebrate Independence Day, on July 1. “Let me also take this opportunity to express gratitude to all the participants who came from different parts of the world to engage in a timely and useful debate about African perspectives on governance and democracy,” Kagame said.“In the African tradition, visitors are known to come with blessings, and, therefore, are always welcomed with good cheer. It makes our celebration more meaningful when we share it with those we consider friends and family. This is an experience most of us share; the struggle for independence and liberation.”President Kagame added: “We recognise it both as a historical and ongoing struggle, because in the world we live in, freedom and dignity are not just handed to you on a silver platter. It is something we have to work hard for, to attain and secure.”

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Rwanda a model of reconstruction–Soyinka