Every February 1, Rwanda marks Heroes Day in an annual event to pay tribute to the people who exemplified and defended the highest values of patriotism and sacrifice for the wellbeing of the country and its citizens. Under this year’s theme ‘Our Heroes, Our Dignity’, Rwandans are celebrating the day virtually as public gatherings are banned due to the covid-19 outbreak. Various celebrities in Rwanda who spoke to The New Times shared their thoughts on what the countrys Heroes Day means for them and the message that Rwandans should learn from it. Arthur Nkusi, Comedian Heroes Day is about reflecting on me and what I can do to make a difference. It is a day to remember that I too can be selfless. Our heroes did their part and it’s up to us to find what we can do for this country and humanity in general especially in these tough days with the pandemic. Let’s be the heroes that fought the pandemic Jolly Mutesi, Miss Rwanda 2016 As we pay tribute to men and women who shed blood to restore peace in this country, this Heroes Day is for us young people, more than anyone else, to reflect on and challenge ourselves on what more we can do to carry on the mantle because the positive change we see in this country is real and we can’t afford to lose it. The sacrifices to be made are much easier than what has been made by our elder brothers and sisters, all we need now is just discipline, responsibility, accountability, commitment, resilience, thinking big and being one, just like our president has always redirected. And, as a young woman, I can’t forget highlighting the powerful women who broke the ancient norms and complemented the efforts of their male counterparts, their legacy is appreciated and we will carry on. Clement Ishimwe, Music Producer, Manager For me, it means that there are people who sacrificed a lot, some even their lives for us to be where we are. As Rwandans, we should make sure their sacrifices are not in vain, we shouldnt take for granted what we have now. Alyn Sano, Artist Heroes’ Day means a day that was fixed for us to celebrate and recognize all Rwandans who did heroic actions. The message that this day should leave to Rwandans is that we make sure we make our heroes proud! They did not sacrifice for us to fight, become jealous of one another or any other disharmonious action. We owe it to them to love our country and it’s people. Ernesto Ugeziwe, Media personality The day is a special one to look back at our country’s history and take inspiration from all those who have given up their lives for the country. Acknowledging that they were people like us, but brave enough to fight for what they believed was right and necessary for our peace. It’s a great lesson and a challenge for the next generation. Riderman, musician The day reminds us to work as a team and that giving your all to our country is the most valuable milestone in our lives. Our heroes joined their hands and sacrificed their lives fighting injustice with a vision for a better Rwanda we are living in now. We should therefore take inspiration from them and love our country, and keep in mind that being Rwandans is the closest relationship between us and key in working for our country to achieve a lot together no matter what challenges and hardships we may face. United we stand, divided we fall.
