President Paul Kagame on Wednesday, February 1, paid tribute to Rwandan heroes, citing that their bravery and patriotism laid the foundation of the nation. He passed his message shortly after presiding over the laying wreaths ceremony at the Heroes Mausoleum in Kigali.

In paying tribute to the Heroes at the Mausoleum, Kagame was flanked by several government officials as well as Congo Brazzaville Ambassador, Guy Nestor Itoua, who also doubles as the Dean of Diplomatic corps accredited to Rwanda.

ALSO READ: Rwanda&039;s leading lights who exemplified heroism

"Today, we honour the Rwandan men and women whose bravery and patriotism laid the foundation for a nation of a people determined to shape their own destiny," he said.

"As we face challenges of regional and global nature, today is a reminder of our ability to stand up for what is right, to protect our nation and to build a legacy of prosperity for generations. Happy Heroes Day!"

Kagame's message echoed the discussions held at the grassroots level around the country as Rwandans celebrated the Heroes Day.

ALSO READ: Rwanda marks Heroes Day

President Kagame and First Lady Jeanette Kagame laid their wreath at around 12:00 pm before the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to Rwanda, Amb. Guy Nestor Itoua paid tribute to the Heroes on behalf the diplomatic community.

A moment of silence in honour of the country’s heroes followed.

Who are the heroes?

The heroes laid at the Mausoleum include Maj. Gen. Fred Gisa Rwigema and the ‘Unknown Soldier’, both of who are in the Imanzi category, the highest honour to be awarded.

ALSO READ: To live, love, die for a cause – eulogy for Rwanda’s Unknown Soldier

The Unknown Soldier represents all those fighters who died during the 1990-1994 Liberation Struggle.

Those in the second category (Imena) include King Mutara Rudahigwa III, Michel Rwagasana, former Prime Minister Agatha Uwiringiyimana, Felicite Niyitegeka and the Nyange Secondary School students.

WATCH: Video: Rudahigwa was King of innovations, positive reforms

This year’s Heroes’ Day was marked under the theme, ‘Our heroism, our dignity’.

Unlike last year when it was celebrated virtually, this year&039;s celebrations were held all over the country.