The event drew more than 700 guests, including members of the Rwandan diaspora, Ugandan government officials, the diplomatic corps, students, and friends of Rwanda.
In his keynote address, Amb. Rutabana described July 4, 1994, as 'the true liberation' of Rwanda, a moment that marked the rebirth of a nation that had nearly collapsed under the weight of the Genocide against the Tutsi, division, and failed post-independence leadership.
"Rwanda got her Independence from colonialism, on the 1st of July 1962. However, the post- colonial governments did not bring any fundamental change to the lives of the people. In fact, they added more impetus to the plight of divisive and sectarian policies of colonial masters," he said, citing the discriminatory regimes of Presidents Kayibanda and Habyarimana.
He recounted how years of marginalisation and exile, particularly of Tutsis, created the conditions for an inevitable revolution.
'In 1987, the Rwandese Patriotic Front (RPF) was formed with the aim of liberating the motherland,' he said, tracing the movement's military campaign that began in 1990 and culminated in the Rwandese Patriotic Army (RPA) capturing Kigali on July 4, 1994â€"effectively ending the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Amb. Rutabana praised the leadership of President Paul Kagame for transforming Rwanda from a nation on the brink of collapse into one of stability, reconciliation, and development.
"The journey has been long and difficult but thanks to the able and transformational leadership of H.E. Paul Kagame, which charted a clear and shared vision, with inclusive policies and equal opportunities to all, considerable achievements have been made,' he said, highlighting that life expectancy has risen to nearly 70 years, school attendance is improving, and Rwanda is now the second-largest contributor to UN peacekeeping missions globally.
He also paid tribute to Uganda for its historical support during Rwanda's most difficult years. 'We did not walk this long journey alone. We have had the valuable support of many partners, including Uganda,' he said, echoing President Kagame's remarks during the 30th commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, acknowledging Uganda's role in carrying 'the burden of Rwanda's internal problems for so many years.'
Amb. Rutabana also noted improved bilateral relations between Rwanda and Uganda, underscoring recent high-level engagements between the two countries' military and government officials. He cited the 11th session of the Uganda-Rwanda Joint Permanent Commission in 2023 as a milestone that laid the groundwork for enhanced cooperation in areas including diplomacy, migration, justice, and cross-border trade.
The Guest of Honour, Amb. Dr. Mohamed A. Kisuule, commended Rwanda's resilience and transformation.
The evening concluded with a toast to Presidents Yoweri Museveni and Kagame, as well as a cake-cutting ceremony symbolising continued unity and friendship between Rwanda and Uganda.
Musical and cultural performances by the Makerere University choir, a Rwandan traditional dance troupe, and Milly's Band added colour to the event, while guests were encouraged to "Visit Rwanda" and explore its natural beauty and growing tourism industry.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
