Kwibohora30: Celebrating Rwanda’s Liberation Day in Switzerland
The Embassy of Rwanda to Switzerland and Permanent Mission to the United Nations Office at Geneva hosted a vibrant celebration to mark the 30th Anniversary of Rwanda's Liberation Day, known as Kwibohora30. The event took place at the World Health Organization (WHO) Headquarters and was attended by Members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Geneva, the Rwandan diaspora community in Switzerland, and friends of Rwanda.
Kwibohora30, which signifies Rwanda’s rebirth following the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) putting an end to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, served as an important reminder of the nation's journey from tragedy to triumph, a remarkable testament to the resilience and determination of the Rwandan people.
In his keynote address, Rwanda's Envoy to Switzerland and to the United Nations, Ambassador James Ngango, elaborated on Rwanda’s transformational journey over the past three decades. "On July 4, 1994, the Rwandan Patriotic Front, led by H.E. Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, brought an end to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and ushered in a new era of hope and rebuilding. This victory not only saved countless lives but also paved the way for the nation’s recovery and renewal," he stated.
Ambassador Ngango also emphasized on Rwanda’s remarkable progress since then, highlighting the nation's commitment to unity, resilience, and development. "The Rwanda of today stands as a beacon of progress and opportunities. Over the past 30 years, we have achieved significant advancements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, positioning Rwanda as a model of sustainable development in Africa. Rwanda’s Liberation indeed ensured security, restored dignity, and rekindled hope for the country’’. He noted.
Participants in Kwibohora30 celebration in Geneva enjoyed Urunana performance, a Rwandan cultural troupe based in Switzerland. Through lively traditional dances, the troop showcased the uniqueness of Rwandan culture, adding a more celebratory fearture of Rwanda's rich heritage and the resilience of its people.
During the celebration, Amb Ngango reiterated the Government's request for support for its candidate for the post of Regional Director of the World Health Organization, for the Africa Region; in the person of Dr Richard MIHIGO. The support of African States, members of the WHO Africa region, is therefore crucial, he stated; in order to jointly build an Africa with more resilient health systems.
He further invited paricipans to visit and invest in Rwanda at any time, and also invited them at the 2025 World Cycling Championships, which will be hosted by Rwanda will from September 21 to 28, 2025. This will be the first time that the World Cycling Championships are held in Africa.e event also marked the conclusion of the "Fierce Femmes" art exhibition at the Gallery Brulhart in Geneva. Curated by Kakizi Jemima, the exhibition showcased the artwork of five Rwandan artists: Cynthia Butare, Odile Uwera, Teta Chel, Crista Uwase, and Miziguruka, as part of the 30th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. This exhibition highlighted the strength and creativity of Rwandan women artists, offering a powerful tribute to the nation's resilience and progress.
Kwibohora30 celebration in Geneva was a testament to the enduring spirit of the Rwandan people and their relentless pursuit of unity, development, and self-reliance. It was a moment of pride for the Rwandan community in Switzerland and an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation with the international community.
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