Dedicated leader and freedom fighter, esteemed son of Africa, you continue to steer your country toward peace, prosperity and promise.

Thanks to your tireless efforts, Ethiopia has undergone significant transformation-from years of hardship, to being one of the torchbearers for Africa’s hope and success.

Born in May 1955, in Adwa, Tigray, Nothern Ethiopia, you have been lauded for significantly changing the course of your country’s history, in a sustained and courageous fight that spans for decades.

A veteran fighter, you dedicated your youth and adult life to advancing the cause of Ethiopia’s and Africa’s liberation.

Taking up the mantle of political leadership in your twenties in the Tigrayan People’s Liberation Front {TPLF} and later on with the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front {EPRDF}, you were determined to take Ethiopia to greater development and prosperity, and offered the experience and lessons of your leadership beyond your borders.

Your Excellencey Meles Zenawi, We, the people of Rwanda, applaud the courage you displayed at the forefront of the struggle for the liberation and the dignity of the African people.

 Indeed, the people of Rwanda believe it is this life-long pursuit that led you to stand steadily by us.

In 1994, as genocide ravaged our country, Ethiopia did not hesitate to send us its brave soldiers to contribute to establishing peace.

They proceeded with courage, wisdom and performed with distinction, and we are forever grateful to you and the people of Ethiopia.

In 1998, you offered steadfast support to the establishment of the OAU Panel of Eminent Persons that investigated and documented the Genocide of the Tutsi of Rwanda.

In doing this, you contributed to a work that will throughout history serve as a lesson to the world’s citizens, of our responsibility to protect one another as members of one global family.

You firmly continued to support the recovery process of our country.

Excellency, we thank and honour you for these noble gestures extended to the people of Rwanda, by you and your country men and women.

And so today, for the voice you raised on Rwanda’s behalf in its hour of need, and for Ethiopia’s generosity toward our people, the President of the Republic of Rwanda, awards Your Excellency, Meles Zenawi "URUTI”, Rwanda’s National Liberation Medal, and "UMURINZI”, Rwanda’s Campaign Against Genocide Medal.

Ends