The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, including Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva, Senate President François-Xavier Kalinda, Chief Justice Domitille Makantaganzwa, Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Gertrude Kazarwa, and other dignitaries.
President Kagame and the First Lady were the first to lay wreaths at the memorial, followed by the Ambassador of Zimbabwe to Rwanda, Prof. Charity Manyeruke, representing the diplomatic community in Rwanda. The couple observed a moment of silence at the memorial to honour the sacrifices of Rwanda's heroes.
After the event, they proceeded to the Kigali Convention Center for a thanksgiving prayer breakfast, organised by the Rwanda Leaders Fellowship.
Rwanda's heroes
Rwanda's national heroes are recognised in three categories: Imanzi, Imena, and Ingenzi.
The Imanzi category honours the highest-ranking heroes, including an Unknown Soldier, representing all who gave their lives in battle, and Major General Fred Gisa Rwigema, who led the Rwandan Patriotic Front at the start of the liberation struggle in October 1990.
The Imena category includes heroes such as King Mutara III Rudahigwa, Michel Rwagasana, Agathe Uwiringiyimana, Félicité Niyitegeka, and the Nyange Secondary School students, recognised for their extraordinary service and sacrifice.
The Ingenzi category currently has no officially listed heroes, although the National Heroes, Medals, and Decorations Office (CHENO) is reviewing over 30 living individuals to potentially recognise them as national heroes or award them national honors.
The ceremony marked a solemn moment of remembrance and celebration of the courage, sacrifice, and contributions of Rwanda's heroes.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
