The Rwandan community living in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain on February 3, tipped on heroism as they convened for a virtual gathering in honour of National Heroes Day.

Officials used the opportunity to call upon the community to be torchbearers of heroic values and strive for Rwanda’s development.

Rwanda’s ambassador to the UAE, Emmanuel Hategeka, urged the audience to spare no efforts in preserving the legacy of Rwanda’s heroes.

"Heroic values of integrity, patriotism, sacrifice, and humanity should be your attributes in whatever you do and wherever you are. You should spare no efforts in building the Rwanda we want, and preserving the national image through business and new skills,” said Hategeka, who is also Rwanda’s non-resident ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

He tasked the youth to own Rwanda’s future, noting that their contribution should start today through good attitudes and activities.

"Our youth should understand that Rwanda’s future is in their hands and that being a hero starts today, not tomorrow. The heroes who liberated the country and children of Nyange set a good example that heroism doesn’t depend on age,” Hategeka explained.

Fight against false narratives

The ambassador also called for a fight against false narratives.

"You should not stay silent when ill-intentioned people disseminate false narratives that seek to tarnish the image of Rwanda and its leaders. You have to come out and tell the truth because you better know your country with tangible facts,” he noted.

Deo Nkusi, the executive secretary of the Chancellery for Heroes, National Orders and Decorations of Honour, reflected on all attributes of Rwandan heroes through generations and told the community that it is their task to uphold and be inspired by the legacy of national heroes.

"You should emulate the good values that we find in all our heroes. Be good Rwandans in countries of residence, promote our cultural dos, and avoid don’ts. Acquire wealth, new skills, and good seeds for your country, Rwanda. Learn good manners and leave behind bad habits. Earn, save, and come back to build your country,” he said.

National Heroes day is observed on February 1 in Rwanda, but the Rwandan community living abroad organises celebrations throughout February.