On Thursday evening, the British High Commissioner to Rwanda, Omar Daair, held a celebration at his residence in Kacyiru, Kigali in honour of King Charles III’s birthday, the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom.
The event boasted a vibrant atmosphere featuring lively music, inspiring decor, and flags of England. Guests indulged in a selection of delicious food and beverages, including the finest English liquors and wines.
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As the United Kingdom marks King Charles III’s birthday each June, this National Day is celebrated with a grand military parade, known as Trooping the Colour, taking advantage of the favourable weather that typically occurs at that time of year. The King’s actual birthdate, however, is November 14.
The practice of celebrating the monarch’s birthday in June dates back to 1748 when King George II combined the annual military march with his birthday celebration.
Trooping the Colour has been a cherished tradition for over 260 years and forms the centrepiece of the King’s birthday celebration. The parade involves more than 1,400 soldiers, along with a magnificent display of musicians and horses.
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King Charles III travels up The Mall, either on horseback or in a horse-drawn carriage, culminating in a public appearance on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, accompanied by members of the Royal Family. The event is further elevated by a fly-past from the Royal Air Force and a 41-gun salute in Green Park.
The official birthday of the King is the chosen day in most Commonwealth realms on which the monarch’s birthday is officially celebrated in those countries, which does not necessarily match the date of the monarch&039;s actual birth.
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Speaking at the celebration in Rwanda, Daair expressed his appreciation for the strong collaborations between Rwanda and the United Kingdom. He highlighted recent milestones such as Rwanda trading under the UK’s low tariff scheme and the expansion of the UK-Rwanda migration deal.
The High Commissioner also mentioned the memorable visit of Rwanda’s President and First Lady to the UK during the King’s coronation, further strengthening the bonds between the two nations.
Minister of State for East African Community Affairs in the Rwandan Cabinet, Manasseh Nshuti, raised a toast to King Charles III and the enduring friendship between Rwanda and the United Kingdom.
In his remarks, he emphasised the importance of shared values and collaborative efforts that have solidified the bilateral relationship between the two countries, which stretches back to the early 1900s, emphasising how important it has been in shaping Rwanda’s current development trajectory.
He also highlighted the mutual benefits derived from trade agreements and expressed optimism for future endeavours between the two nations.
The current form of the King’s official birthday celebration was instituted by the British authorities this year. As per the new tradition, King Charles III’s birthday will be celebrated each year on the third Saturday of June. This change follows the passing of his predecessor, Queen Elizabeth II, whose birthday was celebrated on the second Saturday of June.