Over 1,000 Rwandans and friends of Rwanda from across the UK and Ireland on July 4 gathered at The Royal Regency in London to commemorate the 31st anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation Day, Kwibohora 31. People travelled from cities including Manchester, Coventry, Newcastle, Liverpool, Nottingham, and Bristol, offering a powerful demonstration of unity and national representation within the Rwandan diaspora. ALSO READ: From struggle to strength: Young Rwandans on liberation’s legacy This year’s event featured a Community Panel discussion under the theme: “Taking Stock of the Past and Owning Our Future”-a conversation grounded in reflection, resilience, and forward-looking vision. ALSO READ: 'A standard of good governance’: Reflections on Rwanda at 31 The event was accentuated by a special musical performance from renowned Rwandan artist Ruti Joel, accompanied by Clement-the-Guitarist, who travelled from Rwanda to join the celebrations and perform with the Rwandan Community and friends gathered in London. Led by the MCs Diane Ihirwe and Emmanuel Ruhumuliza, Rwandans and friends of Rwanda reflected on what Liberation means to them and enjoyed traditional dance performances by London-based Inyange Troupe, inspiring speeches by the community leaders of London and the National Association of Rwandese Communities in the UK among many other special moments. Rwanda’s High Commissioner to the UK, Amb. Johnston Busingye, delivered a profound address, first by thanking the Rwandan community in the UK for their continued dedication to the country and to one another “demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility and unity, time and time again”. The High Commissioner said: “As we celebrate Kwibohora for the 31st year, we must continue to remember and honour the brave women and men who sacrificed for their country, so that we can all have a place to call home.” “Time and again, you demonstrate a strong sense of responsibility and unity. Whether during national commemorations such as Kwibuka 31 or through your efforts at the community level, you show up and contribute meaningfully.”
