Rwanda marks Liberation Day, praises Kenya for decades of support

Rwanda has hailed Kenya as a dependable partner in its three-decade journey of recovery and nation-building.

Speaking in Nairobi during Rwanda’s 31st Liberation Day on Friday, High Commissioner Ernest Rwamucyo described Kenya as a true ally in the country’s rise from genocide and dictatorship.

He said the day was not only about Rwanda’s history but also about the values of unity, resilience, and shared progress.

“Liberation marked the rebirth of Rwanda,” Rwamucyo said, recalling how the Rwandan Patriotic Front stopped the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi and began rebuilding the country under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.

He said Rwanda has since made bold steps in rebuilding its institutions and improving the lives of its people.

“We are not yet where we want to be, but we are far from where we were 31 years ago,” the High Commissioner added.

Rwamucyo highlighted strong development progress, citing new survey results showing that poverty dropped from 39.8 to 27.4 per cent between 2017 and 2024, with over 1.5 million Rwandans lifted out of poverty. Extreme poverty fell by more than half.

He said more than 95 per cent of the population is now covered by community health insurance, while school enrolment stands at 96 per cent.

“Life expectancy has increased from 51 years in 2002 to almost 70 years in 2022,” Rwamucyo said.

The envoy thanked Kenya for walking with Rwanda since its liberation. “Kenya has stood by Rwanda in our moments of greatest need, and continues to walk with us in pursuit of sustainable development, peace and prosperity,” he said.

Kenya’s Principal Secretary for the East African Community, Caroline Wanjiru Karugu, represented the government at the event and delivered a message of congratulations from President William Ruto.

“Liberation Day marks the end of a painful chapter and the beginning of a new era of unity, resilience, and progress,” Karugu said.

Kenya praised the leadership of President Kagame, crediting his administration for steering Rwanda into a new era of stability and development.

“The leadership of H.E. President Paul Kagame has turned Rwanda into a model of inclusive development and a symbol of what is possible when a nation unites around a common vision,” Karugu remarked.

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She reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties between the two East African nations, noting that the relationship is anchored on shared values and mutual interests.

“Our two nations share deep historical ties and a strong partnership that continues to grow. The 9th Joint Permanent Commission saw us sign 10 MoUs across key sectors, and we remain committed to their full implementation,” she said.

Karugu also highlighted the growing cooperation between the two countries, particularly through continued high-level engagements between President Ruto and President Kagame.

“These engagements have continued to strengthen our collaboration in trade, investment, and regional stability. Rwanda’s strides in education, healthcare, innovation, and empowerment are an inspiration to Africa and beyond.”