Rwanda Marks 31 Years of Liberation: Honoring Progress, Unity, and the Fight against Poverty

• Rwanda Commemorates 31st Liberation Anniversary with Renewed Commitment to Unity and Progress

On Friday, July 4, Rwandans and friends of Rwanda commemorated the 31st anniversary of Liberation Day (Kwibohora31), a pivotal moment marking the end of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and the beginning of a new chapter of unity, justice, and development. This national day honors the extraordinary sacrifices of the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF) and Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA), who halted the genocide and laid the foundation for a reconstructed nation.

The liberation struggle began on October 1, 1990, when the RPF/RPA launched a campaign to dismantle decades of oppressive leadership, ethnic discrimination, and exile that had plagued the country since 1959. The genocide of 1994 claimed over one million lives, and its end marked not only the cessation of violence but also the start of a deep national transformation.

Reflecting on a Nation Rebuilt

Liberation Day serves as a moment for national reflection, as Rwandans look back on the country’s progress from post-genocide recovery to a model of socio-economic transformation. The day also pays tribute to the men and women who fought to restore dignity, justice, and equal opportunity to all Rwandans, erasing the exclusionary ideologies of the past.

Speaking to The New Times, Brig. Gen. Ronald Rwivanga, spokesperson of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF), emphasized that true liberation goes beyond military victory.

“True liberation came after halting the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and ending historical discrimination. But real transformation means fighting poverty and social inequality ensuring a better life for every Rwandan,” he said.

While this year’s Liberation Day was not marked by a large national ceremony such events occur every five years the Ministry of Defence and RDF concluded their Defence and Security Citizen Outreach Programme on July 3 by unveiling key development projects. These included new housing for vulnerable families, expanded water and electricity infrastructure, and the provision of free medical services across the country.

Brig. Gen. Rwivanga noted that the military remains committed to national development, working in tandem with the government and civil society to uplift communities and improve welfare.

A Nation Transformed

Rwanda’s achievements over the past three decades are substantial. According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, life expectancy increased from 51 years in 2002 to 70 years in 2022. The national poverty rate dropped significantly, from 58.9% in 2001 to 27.4% in 2024. Access to clean drinking water now reaches 90% of households, while electricity access has grown to 72%.

“These are not just statistics; they are proof of continuous liberation,” said Rwivanga. “Liberation today means freeing ourselves from poverty, inequality, and dependency. It is a collective mission not limited to the army alone but shared by all institutions, youth, and citizens.”

Justice, Equality, and the Rule of Law

Ambassador Charles Murigande, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and RPF Secretary General, echoed these sentiments. He highlighted the significance of legal equality and good governance as cornerstones of the ongoing liberation journey.

 “We must continue building a Rwanda where every citizen enjoys equal rights and legal protection,” he said. “This demands a justice system led by people of integrity free from corruption and favoritism.”

While Rwanda has made significant strides, Murigande cautioned that poverty still poses a risk to national unity and long-term peace.

 “Poverty remains a pressing challenge. Though reduced, it still makes people vulnerable to manipulation. Socioeconomic transformation must remain at the heart of our national agenda.”

He credited President Paul Kagame with restoring the dignity of Rwandans, instilling a sense of self-worth that has inspired innovation, ambition, and resilience.

Voices of the New Generation

Younger Rwandans, like Kevine Umurerwa, 25, represent the living legacy of liberation. A resident of Kigali, she sees today’s Rwanda as a beacon of peace, unity, and opportunity.

 “When I look at Rwanda the peace, the development, the vibrant tourism sector I feel proud. We owe our progress to those who sacrificed for us,” Umurerwa said.

 “It’s our duty as the youth to protect what has been achieved. We must reject division and negativity, especially on digital platforms. Our responsibility is to sustain peace, unity, and continued progress.”