“The Rwanda you see now was once an idea; a dream we used to talk about, but now are living. We have reached this far because of visionary leadership,” Tito Rutaremara, Chairperson of Rwanda Elders’ Advisory Forum, said during discussions on the heroism of RPF-Inkotanyi and the lessons young people can learn. The space was organized by Ministry of Unity and Civic engagement and Peace and Love Proclaimers (plp). Rutaremara said that building something bigger takes more hands. “We had to collaborate with different people and make them understand our vision, you can’t build Rwanda alone. Building Rwanda takes every Rwandan.” For the Genocide deniers or perpetrators, Rutaremara said there is need to stand up against them, as they are distracting some people who don’t have the right information. He added that young people have a role to play in sustaining what had been achieved over the last 28 years. Fiona Kamikazi, a communication specialist, said that young people do not necessarily fight wars with guns. But rather, they build their country through the different sectors of the economy. She said: “there are a lot of metrics used to determine development, but our country started from scratch. The advantage we have is the will and visionary leadership that is leading us.” She lauded the bravery of the RPF. “However much the situation wasn’t suitable while fighting, with will and morale, they vowed not to go back until Rwandans have unity and reconciliation and a place to call home.” Christian Intwali, founder of Our Past Initiative, said there are many lessons to learn from RPF, including being selfless, sacrificing oneself and pursuing the greater good. “We shouldn’t undermine our age just like the Inkotanyi didn’t; they were not limited by any situation although there were many challenges. What I learn is being considerate, looking at the bigger picture.” Ingrid Iriho, who lives in the United Kingdom, said that, for the young people in the diaspora to be patriotic, it takes parents effort talking to them and teaching them about the history. Iriho appreciated the government for putting in effort in empowering Rwandans in the diaspora, especially young people.
