As Rwanda marks the Heroes Day, the president of Rwanda National Olympics Committee (RNOSC), Alice Umulinga, has called upon athletes and all stakeholders of the sports community to emulate the example of sacrifice and dedication that the heroes of the country showcased in different generations.
"As we celebrate the 29th edition of the national Heroes’ Day, I would like to take this opportunity to call upon all members and stakeholders of the Rwanda Sport Movement to always be characterized by heroism in our daily lives,” Umulinga noted in a Heroes Day message that RNOSC shared.
"Let us work together to ensure that sport can benefit our athletes and the nation as a whole. May the legacy of heroism bestowed to us always remind us that our contribution as the Rwandan Sport Movement is to use sport as a tool to contribute to the country’s peace and development,” she added.
On a special note, Umulinga encouraged athletes to always have Olympic values including excellence, respect and friendship on and off the pitch.
"This will surely help them achieve their life goals and be useful to their motherland,” she noted.
Rwandans, and friends of Rwanda on Wednesday, February 1, marked Heroes Day, an occasion during which the country pays tribute to its nationals who demonstrated the highest values of patriotism and sacrifice for the well-being of the country and its citizens.
Unlike last year, when celebrations were held virtually owing to restrictions brought by the Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s celebrations were marked on the national level and in the local communities.
The day featured activities including discussions under the theme "Our heroism, our dignity”, according to the Chancellery for Heroes, National Orders and Decorations of Honor (CHENO).