THE resilience and determination exhibited by the Rwandese in shaping the trajectory of their country’s renewal in the aftermath of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi has designated Rwanda as a leading example in Africa’s development and technological innovation, Foreign Affairs and International Minister Professor Amon Murwira said.

Speaking at the 32nd anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation Day, or Kwibohora 32, Prof Murwira said the event stood as a powerful testament to what visionary leadership, national unity and cohesion and collective purpose can achieve even in one of history’s darkest chapters.

“This is a celebration of the resilience, courage and determination of the Rwandan people who transformed one of history’s darkest chapters into a story of reconciliation, unity and national renewal.

“Rwanda’s experience always reminds us that meaningful development flourishes where there is peace, where there is stability, and national cohesion. Through bold reforms, strategic planning and commitment to national development, Rwanda has emerged as one of Africa’s leading examples of transformation and technological innovation.

“The achievements realised under Vision 2050, the national strategy for transformation, and Rwanda’s advances in digital innovation continue to inspire the continent and the world at large,” Prof Murwira said.

Rwanda marks Liberation Day annually on July 4 to mark the end of the genocide against the Tutsi, following the intervention by the Rwanda Patriotic Front forces led by President Paul Kagame.

The genocide against the Tutsi began on April 7, 1994. Over a period of 100 days, more than one million innocent people were systematically murdered by soldiers and militias of the then government.

Prof Murwira commended Rwanda for being Zimbabwe’s dependable and trusted friend sharing common values and aspirations for Africa’s development, anchored on the pursuit of economic diplomacy to promote peaceful coexistence and mutually beneficial partnerships.

He thanked Rwanda, all ambassadors in Zimbabwe and global states for the invaluable support and trust rendered during Zimbabwe’s successful election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term.

“We do not take this trust for granted. We believe we will use the trust to make a better world for all. We look forward to working closely with Rwanda and many other countries in advancing the African and the world agenda of promoting peace and security, supporting reform to the global governance architecture being led by our UN Secretary-General, His Excellency Mr Antonio Guterres,” Prof Murwira added.

Rwanda’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe James Musoni said Liberation Day was a celebration of resilience more than a military victory.

“Kwibohora is much more than the celebration of a military victory. It is a celebration of resilience, unity, courage, patriotism and the determination of Rwandans to rebuild their country through reconciliation, good governance, accountability, and inclusive development,” said Ambassador Musoni.

He said Zimbabwe and Rwanda shared a steadfast commitment to deepening bilateral ties anchored by the visionary leadership of the two countries’ presidents, with cooperation expanding in areas including healthcare, sustainable energy, education, and trade facilitation in the framework of the joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation.