The celebration, which is traditionally held on July 4, was postponed because several international conferences took place in Ankara during that period, leading to the temporary suspension of activities at many embassies.
Hosted in the Turkish capital, the event featured a cycling race, a road walk, a table tennis tournament, discussions on Rwanda’s liberation journey, and an evening cultural performance celebrating the country’s liberation.
Winners of the various competitions were recognized during the event. In the cycling tournament, Turkish participant Umut Akçaoğlu claimed first place, followed by Camille Niyonkuru in second and Pascal Nshuti in third. In the road walk competition, Lea Mujawimana finished first, ahead of Rulisa Briella and Laurence Uwonkunda Kayitare. In the table tennis tournament, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Charles Kayonga, emerged as the winner, while Nicole Cyuzuzo finished second.
A panel discussion was led by Rwanda’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Charles Kayonga, with contributions from Defence Attaché Col. Jean Paul Rulisa, Capt. Claudette Nishimwe, Commercial Attaché Lucas Murenzi, and Dr. Faustin Hategekimana.
The discussion focused on Rwanda’s liberation struggle, highlighting the courage and sacrifice of the young men and women of the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) during the liberation war, as well as their contribution to rebuilding the country after ending the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Speakers also reflected on the opportunities available to today’s youth as a result of the inclusive leadership established after the genocide.
Addressing participants, Ambassador Charles Kayonga explained that Rwanda’s liberation struggle unfolded in different phases. He noted that the first phase ended on July 4, 1994, when the RPA defeated the regime responsible for planning and carrying out the Genocide against the Tutsi.
He emphasized that, although the military struggle ended 32 years ago, Rwanda continues another important battle, one focused on development, transformation, and sustainable national progress.
The ambassador urged participants to reflect on how discriminatory politics can lead a nation to tragedy, recalling the lessons of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. He stressed that Rwanda’s 2003 Constitution firmly rejects all forms of discrimination and divisionism.
He further noted that good governance has enabled today’s young generation to grow up in a peaceful and united Rwanda. He encouraged them to appreciate the country’s remarkable development while remaining vigilant against divisive ideologies that continue to fuel instability and undermine citizens’ rights in parts of the region. He called on young people to actively reject all forms of divisionism and to safeguard Rwanda’s unity and achievements.
Speakers also reminded participants that the goal of any liberation struggle is not only to achieve victory but also to preserve its gains. Young people were therefore encouraged to remain committed to protecting the country’s achievements and contributing to its continued development.
The celebration also honored Rwandan students who recently completed their studies at different universities across Türkiye. They were commended for their hard work and academic success and encouraged to become exemplary professionals who will contribute to Rwanda’s future development.
The event concluded with cultural performances featuring songs and dances inspired by Rwanda’s liberation struggle, bringing the celebration to a festive close.
karirima@igihe.com
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