The Rwandan diaspora Community in Switzerland gathered in Geneva this Saturday to celebrate National Heroes Day, a solemn occasion dedicated to the valor, patriotism and resilience of Rwanda's National Heroes. The event stood as a testament to the profound impact and enduring values of those who have shaped the nation.

Ambassador Marie Chantal Rwakazina emphasized the heroes' virtues in her address, highlighting their resilience and patriotic spirit. "We gather to honor the courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment of National Heroes that define Rwanda," she stated, reinforcing the guiding principles for the Country’s future.

The event was enriched by a panel discussion, where personal stories and intimate anecdotes brought the heroes' narratives to life. Family members and acquaintances of these venerable figures shared their memories, providing a deeply human context to the legendary deeds and virtues of Rwanda's heroes. This segment not only educated but also deeply moved the attendees, bridging generations and connecting the diaspora more closely to their roots.

Marie-Christine Lussi Umuhoza, daughter of Agatha Uwiringiyimana, a revered National Hero, shared her mother's words, when faced with divisive questions about her ethnicity by a journalist. Late Uwiringiyimana had famously responded with a unifying message, emphasizing her identity as a Rwandan above all, committed to her country's well-being regardless of ethnic lines.

 "I am a person, and I am Rwandan. I have a duty towards my country, whether I am a woman, a man, Hutu or Tutsi, it has no importance." This statement resonated deeply, underscoring the theme of unity and shared national identity that transcends ethnic lines’’, Umuhoza quoted her mother. This powerful statement underscored the event's overarching theme of unity and shared national identity.

Bernadette Uwamariya shared the courageous story of her friend, Felicité Niyitegeka, who chose to stand by the refugees that she had hid for two weeks during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi rather than surrender them. Olivier Gatabazi, a then-teacher at Nyange Secondary School, detailed the heroism of students who, when faced with division by ethnicity, unitedly declared their Rwandan identity. This act of unity led to a tragic outcome, with immediate loss of life and many injured, but their sacrifice remained a powerful legacy, especially for Rwandan youth, emphasizing unity over division.

Mr. Yves Cyaka, President of the Rwandan diaspora, reflected on the foundational role of the heroes in establishing Rwanda's sovereignty and emphasized the fact that through their courageous acts, Rwandans now have a Country to call home.

The discussions that followed, particularly engaging the youth, focused on how to embody the values of Rwanda's heroes in today's context, reflecting a progressive and forward-thinking approach. The event concluded with a performance by Urunana, a cultural group that brought Rwandan traditions to life in Switzerland. The evening of dance, music, and shared meals celebrated not only Rwanda's past but also its vibrant culture and collective aspirations for the future.

This year's National Heroes Day in Geneva was a moving tribute to the legacy of Rwanda's heroes, reinforcing the bonds of community and the commitment to building a united and prosperous future.