Addressing a vibrant audience, Rwanda's Ambassador to China, James Kimonyo, delivered a stirring message that especially resonated with young Rwandans, urging them to 'carry the torch of Kwibohora' and lead the next chapter of Rwanda's transformation.
'To the youth of Rwanda, the leaders of tomorrow, I say this: your generation carries the torch of Kwibohora. You carry a huge responsibility to take Rwanda even further,' he said. 'The future is in your hands â€" and it is bright.'
Liberation Day, commonly known as Kwibohora, commemorates July 4, 1994 â€" the day the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA-Inkotanyi) ended the Genocide against the Tutsi and ushered in a new era of unity and hope.
It marked the end of a brutal regime defined by ethnic division, exile, conflict, and mass killings. The liberation struggle, which began on October 1, 1990, culminated in the military defeat of genocidal forces under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, heralding a new dawn for Rwanda.
'Kwibohora is more than just a day to celebrate our freedom,' said Amb. Kimonyo. 'It is a day to recognize how far we have come as a nation and to reflect on the progress we have made together â€" as we look to the future.'
The Ambassador highlighted Rwanda's extraordinary post-genocide transformation â€" from a deeply broken society to one of Africa's most admired nations.
With an average economic growth rate of 8%, major investments in technology, infrastructure, and industry, and leading global rankings in governance and safety, Rwanda is steadily building toward its Vision 2050 goal of becoming a high-income country.
But beyond the statistics, Amb. Kimonyo emphasized values: unity, resilience, and responsibility. He urged young Rwandans not to take the legacy of liberation for granted, but to embody its spirit in their actions and ambitions.
'The liberation we celebrate today is not an end in itself,' he said. 'It calls for sustained hard work, discipline, and commitment to our founding ideals.'
The ceremony also featured remarks by Ambassador Lei Kezhong, representing the Government of the People's Republic of China. He praised Rwanda's leadership and progress, highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.
'Rwanda has successfully taken control of its own destiny and is making solid progress toward realizing its Vision 2050,' said Amb. Lei. 'China is ready to continue supporting Rwanda through high-level cooperation, infrastructure development, and enhanced market access.'
China remains one of Rwanda's most significant development partners, contributing to transformative projects such as Masaka Hospital, Nyabarongo II Hydropower Plant, and technology-focused initiatives like satellite remote sensing.
In his closing remarks, Amb. Kimonyo called on all Rwandans to safeguard the hard-won gains and reject the forces of division.
'Let us pledge to protect and uphold the progress we have made,' he urged. 'This is a journey that will ensure future generations live in a society where justice, equality, and peace are their birthright.'
As Rwanda marks Kwibohora31, the focus shifts from military victory to a new kind of liberation â€" one that will be won through innovation, purpose, and the unwavering resolve of a united people, with the youth at its forefront.
Christian Mugisha
