Rwandans in African states mark Liberation

Rwandans, diplomats and friends of Rwanda in different African countries last week converged at their respective embassies to mark the country’s 19th liberation anniversary. Participants at the events reflected on Rwanda’s past, what the country has so far achieved and discussed what should be done to develop the country further, and their respective roles.Rwanda’s envoy to Nigeria, Joseph Habineza, stressed that as Africa continues to economically integrate, there was need to eliminate all the trade barriers to allow free movement of goods and people.“We need to do business among ourselves (African countries) and this requires free and easy movement of people and goods across the continent…you will agree with me that on this we still have homework to do,” he said He said that African countries should open up to the continent, citing the example of the policy that Rwanda put into effect this year, opening borders for Africans. Effective January 1, 2013 Kigali started issuing visas to all nationals from African countries traveling to or transiting through Rwanda upon arrival at any Rwandan entry point. The decision was taken in a bid to remove formalities in visa acquisition from Rwanda’s respective embassies in the travelers’ countries of origin.Habineza added that air transport on the continent was still facing challenges yet it’s the easiest means for the continent that has poor road infrastructure.Pan-Africanism In Pretoria, the High Commissioner Vincent Karega highlighted Rwanda’s achievement and its important role in the African agenda. He stressed the importance of Pan Africanism and Africa Renaissance calling upon Rwandans and Africans in general to be in charge of their own destiny. “No country in Africa can go very far alone if the continent lags behind,” he is quoted in a statement from the embassy. A highlighton Rwanda’s achievements in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, education, health, tourism, ICT and urban development was shared to the audience of over 250 participants.Meanwhile, in Kinshasa, Rwanda’s Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Amandin Rugira said that Rwanda and DRC remained brotherly countries and that they would continue working together in many areas.The event that took place on Saturday at the ambassador’s residence attracted about 200 guests including Congolese ministers, senators, Members of Parliament, Rwandan nationals living in Kinshasa, members of the Diplomatic Corps among others.

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Rwandans in African states mark Liberation