Islamabad (GNP): Rwanda High Commission in Pakistan hosted a grand reception in Islamabad, to commemorate Kwibohora 32, marking the 32nd Liberation Day of the Republic of Rwanda.
The event brought together members of the Rwandan community in Pakistan, Friends of Rwanda, senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, ambassadors, high commissioners, business leaders, entrepreneurs, academics, media representatives, and other distinguished guests.
The reception celebrated Rwanda’s remarkable journey of transformation, resilience, unity, and sustainable development over the past three decades. Guests gathered to honor the country’s achievements while reaffirming the growing ties and cooperation between Rwanda and Pakistan.
Harerimana Fatou, Rwanda High Commissioner to Pakistan, highlighted the significance of Kwibohora as a defining moment in Rwanda’s history and reflected on the country’s extraordinary progress since liberation.
High Commissioner recognized the brave Rwandans who stopped the Genocide against the Tutsi and liberated the country. She paid tribute to the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) and the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives during this period of struggle, stating that their devotion, courage, and heroism will never be forgotten.
The High Commissioner further highlighted that, through the hard work, determination, and visionary leadership of the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF), led by H.E. Paul Kagame, Rwanda has undergone a historic transformation and today stands as a gateway to Africa, driven by innovation, resilience, and determination.
Barrister Aqeel Malik, Minister of State for Law and Justice address thr ceremony ssid that Kwibohora, meaning “Liberation” in Kinyarwanda, is celebrated annually on 4 July and is one of Rwanda’s most significant national holidays. It commemorates the liberation of Rwanda in 1994, when the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA) stopped the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi by securing Kigali and restoring peace and security.
Minister of State said Kwibohora symbolizes more than a military victory. It marks the beginning of Rwanda’s journey of national unity, reconciliation, peace, security, and socio-economic transformation. It honours the courage and sacrifice of those who liberated the nation while celebrating the resilience of the Rwandan people and the country’s remarkable progress over the past three decades.
The annual commemoration highlights Rwanda’s achievements in governance, economic development, healthcare, education, infrastructure, gender equality, and innovation, while reaffirming the country’s commitment to self-reliance, good governance, and sustainable development under Vision 2050.
He emphasized that today, Kwibohora stands as a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s transformation from tragedy to hope and prosperity, inspiring all Rwandans to uphold the values of unity, dignity, resilience, and shared responsibility in building a peaceful and inclusive future.
A ceremonial cake-cutting marked the celebration of Rwanda’s 32nd Liberation Day, symbolizing the country’s continued progress and the shared joy of the occasion.
The reception was attended by a large and distinguished audience, reflecting the strong goodwill and friendship that Rwanda enjoys within Pakistan’s diplomatic, governmental, and business communities.
Guests experienced Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage through vibrant Rwandan music, creating a warm and festive atmosphere throughout the evening.
A dedicated Rwandan coffee stall offered guests, especially the youth, an opportunity to enjoy Rwanda’s world-renowned specialty coffee, showcasing one of the country’s finest exports and promoting its growing reputation for high-quality agricultural products.
The celebration concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening the enduring friendship between Rwanda and Pakistan while promoting greater cooperation in trade, investment, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
