The Embassy of Rwanda in Angola hosted an event on Thursday, July 13, to commemorate the 29th anniversary of Rwanda’s liberation.

The celebration took place at the embassy premises and brought together guests from Rwanda and Angola.

The Angolan government delegation included Americo Cuonononoca, Vice President of the National Assembly, Dionisio Manuel da Fonseca, Minister of Territory Administration, Maria da Piedade de Jesus, Secretary of Culture and Tourism, and Esmeralda Mendonca, Secretary of Foreign Affairs.

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In his remarks, acting charge d’affaires, Sam Masengesho, highlighted the profound significance of Liberation Day, observed on July 4, for the people of Rwanda.

"This day symbolises the triumph over the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, when the heroic efforts of the Rwanda Patriotic Front - Inkotanyi, led by President Paul Kagame, brought an end to the Genocide and overthrew the regime responsible for the atrocities committed against the Rwandan people,” he said.

Masengesho paid tribute to the brave individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice for Rwanda’s freedom and honoured their memory. He emphasised the importance of Rwanda’s liberation and the values it represents, quoting President Kagame’s belief that liberation is not a single event but an attitude that inspires everything the nation does.

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He also highlighted the strong bilateral relations between Rwanda and Angola, acknowledging the fruitful cooperation in various sectors.

The Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation held in April 2022 resulted in the signing of several agreements and memorandums of understanding, further enhancing collaboration in areas such as agriculture, health, mineral resources, telecommunications, and transportation.

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Masengesho expressed gratitude for Angola’s mediation and conflict resolution efforts in the Great Lakes Region, recognising the shared values between the two countries.

The celebration served as a testament to the deepening friendship and mutual respect that exists between Rwanda and Angola.