Rwandans living in Kenya have been urged to borrow a leaf from patriotism that characterized RPA Inkotanyi soldiers during the liberation struggle and continue to model virtues along Rwanda’s resilience journey.

The call was made on Saturday 24th July 2021 during a ceremony organized by the Rwanda High Commission in Kenya today to celebrate Rwanda’s 27th Liberation anniversary.

The celebration featured panel discussions revolving around values that characterized Rwanda’s Liberation journey and how they can remain relevant along the country’s journey towards self-reliance.

The event was held in a hybrid format with a few members of the Rwandan Diaspora in Kenya attending physically at the High Commission while more than 100 Rwandans from different parts of Kenya participated virtually.

After stopping the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi, RPA Inkotanyi soldiers installed non-divisive leadership promoting unity, reconciliation, and inclusive development among Rwandans under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.

Rwanda experienced serious economic collapse but has today become a resilient country with impressive transformations in various aspects of life that it is seen as a role model for many countries.

During the panel discussion, Dr. Alphonse Muleefu, the Acting Principal of the School of Social Sciences/University of Rwanda gave a brief history of the liberation struggle before diving into an invigorating conversation around the values that characterized the liberation struggle, the journey to self-reliance, the brave sacrifice of the RPA in stopping the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi, contribution of visionary and accountable leadership.

In line with the theme, the panelist called on Rwandans in the diaspora, particularly the youth in continuing the liberation spirit ‘that our leadership has nurtured and set as an example’.

The event also features an interactive session where participants and the panelist shared liberation memories, experiences and exchanged ideas on what needs to be done to ensure that the Rwandan diaspiora is at the forefront in building the country.

As he delivered remarks, the High Commissioner of Rwanda in Kenya, Dr. Richard Masozera reminded participants of the significance of the liberation journey and the need to keep liberation memories alive.

He reflected on Rwanda’s non-discriminatory policy where every citizen, regardless of their height, religion or region has equal rights and called on the youth not to take Rwanda’s progress for granted.

Dr. Masozera told the youth that the country’s transformations did not come by accident but a result of those who paid a huge price to liberate the country.

The celebration was followed by the official launch of the Rwandan Professionals Network in Kenya (RPN-K) whose objectives, among others, include capitalizing on skills and expertise of members to empower the Rwandan Diaspora in Kenya with particular focus on Rwandan youth; working closely with Rwandan Diaspora in Kenya in creating awareness on national developmental priorities; promoting cooperation and good communication between Rwandan Community members in Kenya.

The Network will also promote the Rwandan culture, unity and reconciliation in the Community; advocate against any ideology of divisionism among Rwandans; promote and encourage the rebuilding of Rwanda; and promote science, technology and knowledge transfer.

The elected members of the Rwandan Professionals Network in Kenya committed to contribute to the mandate set by the Rwandan leadership, continued development of Rwanda and the fight to quell genocide ideology among others.

The High Commissioner of Rwanda in Kenya, Dr. Richard Masozera reminded participants of the significance of the liberation journey and the need to keep liberation memories alive.

The High Commissioner of Rwanda to Kenya with the elected members of RPN Executive Comittee.

Dr. Alphonse Muleefu, the Acting Principal of the School of Social Sciences/University of Rwanda gave a brief history of the liberation struggle during the event.

The event was held in a hybrid format to adhere to COVID-19 containment measures.