On Friday, 26 July, Rwandans in South Africa, friends, South African government officials, and members of the diplomatic community gathered in Johannesburg to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Rwanda’s liberation, #Kwibohora30.
During the celebration of the 30th anniversary of Liberation, attendees honored the sacrifices of the Rwanda Patriotic Army during the liberation struggle, which stopped the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and ushered in a new era of national unity and healing.
Rwanda’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Emmanuel Hategeka, said, “For Rwandans, Liberation Day is a profound reminder of their past and a celebration of their resilience and progress.”
“It signifies the triumph of unity over division, and hope over despair. As we reflect on our journey, we are reminded of the collective effort and determination that has brought us to where we are today,” Hategeka said.
“The process of rebuilding an almost failed state meant restoring a nation from the ground up—physically, emotionally, and socially.”
He said over the past 30 years, Rwandans prioritized national unity, security, and progress under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.
He added that the country is dedicated to ensuring peace in other countries by contributing troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions.
“This commitment not only showcases our desire for a peaceful world but also our willingness to contribute to global stability,” Hategeka noted.
Hategeka noted that the history of the past 30 years had been marked by similarities for both Rwanda and South Africa, as the former stopped a genocide and the other was emerging from apartheid.
Ambassador Hategeka emphasized that Liberation is a journey, a marathon, not a sprint. It is an ongoing struggle for humankind—for better lives, for self-determination, for the freedom of choice, and for the capacity to shape and work towards dreams.
South Africa’s Deputy Minister for International Relations and Cooperation, Anna Thandi Moraka, emphasized the strong bilateral ties between South Africa and Rwanda, noting the parallels in their histories and the shared values of resilience and unity.
She stressed the commitment to continued collaboration and mutual support between the two countries.
Every July 4, Rwandans and friends of Rwanda, wherever they are, celebrate Liberation Day, the day when the Liberation Struggle ended, and the beginning of Rwanda’s rebirth.
Members of the Rwandan abroad organize events to celebrate Liberation Day in their respective countries of residence.
Rwandans in South Africa celebrate #Kwibohora30
