Rwanda marks National Heroes Day
Rwandans Thursday commemorated the 30th anniversary of the National Heroes Day with events across the country. The day was observed under the theme: “Our Heroes, Our dignity.”
Rwandan Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente led other government officials in laying wreaths at the National Heroes Mausoleum in Remera in the capital city of Kigali.
He was joined by Senate President Francois François Xavier Kalinda, the country’s Chief Justice Faustin Nteziryayo, and the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Guy Nestor Itoua, who is the ambassador of the Republic of Congo in Rwanda.
There were no official speeches at the national event. But celebrations across the country focused on showcasing achievements in different domains, and discussions aimed at cultivating patriotism among Rwandans as well as reflection on the heroes who have shaped Rwanda's history.
“Rwanda pays tribute to our national heroes who have embodied the highest values of patriotism and sacrifice for the country and its people. Our national heroes inspire us to shape Rwanda's future,” the government said in a statement.
On the eve of the celebrations traditional music concert was staged in Kigali featuring a military band and Urukerereza, Rwanda's national ballet.
Raphael Nkaka, an associate professor of history at the University of Rwanda, said that remembering national heroes is vital because they demonstrated exceptional Rwandan values of unity, patriotism and sacrifice for the country.
