Zambia says Rwanda’s liberation journey holds lessons for Africa

MONICA KAYOMBO

RWANDA’s remarkable transformation from the devastation of the 1994 genocide into one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies offers valuable lessons in unity, visionary leadership and inclusive development, the Zambian Government has said.

Speaking during celebrations marking the 32nd anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation Day (Kwibohora 32) and the country’s 64th Independence Anniversary in Lusaka on Saturday, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts Kangwa Chileshe said Rwanda had demonstrated that peace, accountable governance and a clear national vision could transform even the most devastated nation.

He said Zambia regarded Rwanda as an important partner in advancing regional integration and sustainable development, noting that relations between the two countries had continued to expand beyond diplomacy into strategic sectors that directly contribute to economic growth and improved livelihoods.

The commemorative event, organised by the High Commission of the Republic of Rwanda in Zambia, brought together senior government officials, diplomats, religious leaders, members of the Rwandan community and invited guests to celebrate Rwanda’s journey of resilience and national renewal.

Liberation Day marks the end of the 1994 genocide and the beginning of Rwanda’s reconstruction, reconciliation and recovery after one of the darkest periods in the country’s history.

Addressing the gathering, Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Zambia, Emmanuel Bugingo, said the anniversary symbolises courage, resilience and the determination of the Rwandan people to rebuild their country on the foundations of unity, peace, accountability and inclusive development.

He reflected on Rwanda’s difficult history, noting that decades of division and poor governance culminated in the 1994 genocide, which claimed more than one million lives, displaced millions of people and left institutions and infrastructure in ruins.