Rwandan youth in Switzerland reaffirm commitment to homeland's transformation

Rwandan youth diaspora in Switzerland gathered in the city of Neuchâtel from March 29 to 30, for a retreat focused on Rwandan history and its transformation journey. Organized for and by the youth themselves, with the support of the wider diaspora community and the Rwandan embassy to Switzerland, the event drew about 88 participants from all corners of the European country. Held under the theme “The history of Rwanda and the current regional context”, the retreat offered a platform for dialogue aimed at reconnecting young Rwandans born and raised abroad with the country’s rich heritage and current realities. Over two days, the participants explored Rwanda’s pre-colonial history, post-independence governance, the liberation struggle, and the country’s socio-economic transformation after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Ambassador James Ngango commended the initiative and underlined the importance of such engagements in nation-building. Young people make up over 60 per cent of Rwanda’s population. Your voice, your understanding of history, and your active participation are vital to shaping Rwanda’s future, Ngango told the participants. He also encouraged the youth to remain vigilant and engaged in fighting misinformation about their country, especially amid the current security crisis in eastern DR Congo, which borders Rwanda. The program featured in-depth presentations by distinguished panelists - including Alice Kwizera, Dr. Jean Pierre Nyemazi, Jean Damascene Ndayisenga, and Eric Gaju—who guided participants through key chapters of Rwanda's historical and transformation journey. Interventions by leaders of Rwandan diaspora who had accompanied the youth including Yves Cyaka, President of Rwanda Diaspora in Switzerland offered insight into the effects of colonial legacy, liberation struggle and post-Genocide socio-economic development. Groups discussion addressed critical historical and geopolitical questions, including the legacy of colonial administration, the role of the Church, and strategies for peace and stability in the Great Lakes region. During the retreat, one of the participants, Songa Rudasigwa, encouraged his peers to take an active role in combating hate speech online, especially on social media. “The country needs us at this time,” he stated. “We need to be well-informed so we can effectively fight misinformation and hate speech targeting our country.” His message resonated strongly with fellow participants, reinforcing the call for responsible digital engagement among the diaspora youth. In the face of ongoing regional challenges, the enthusiasm and commitment of Rwanda’s diaspora youth in Switzerland sent a strong signal of unity, resilience, and hope. The Neuchâtel retreat showcased the power of young people uniting with purpose, pride, and a shared determination to contribute meaningfully to their homeland’s future.

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Rwandan youth in Switzerland reaffirm commitment to homeland's transformation