Rwanda’s remarkable transformation since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi is a testament to its resilience, unity, and forward-looking vision, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Maj. Gen (Rtd) Charles Karamba, said on Friday, July 4, as the country marked the 31st anniversary of Liberation. ALSO READ: Rwanda cannot live on the whims of others – Kagame Speaking during celebrations jointly hosted by the Embassy of Rwanda in Ethiopia and the Permanent Mission to the African Union, and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Amb Karamba reflected on Rwanda’s journey from a country devastated by the 1994 Genocide to a thriving, progressive nation. ALSO READ: 31 years after liberation, transformation continues The event brought together members of the diplomatic corps, senior officials of the African Union, international organisations, Ethiopian government representatives, defence attachés, the Rwandan community, and friends of Rwanda. Karamba recalled that July 4, 1994, marked the end of decades of division, persecution, and the genocide, as the Rwandan Patriotic Army (RPA), under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, stopped the massacres and liberated the country. “Liberation was not only about defeating a brutal regime it was about building a new Rwanda based on unity, justice, and dignity for all,” he observed, highlighting Rwanda’s tremendous progress over the past 31 years. “Rwanda has moved from despair to hope, from division to unity, from destruction to development. Today, we are a resilient and forward-looking nation, with strong institutions, inclusive policies, and a clear vision for our future,” he stated. He observed that the transformation is visible in all sectors from peace and reconciliation to macroeconomic growth, good governance, gender equality, citizen participation, and access to quality services. ALSO READ: Proposed tax changes set to rake in Rwf300bn annually On the international stage, Karamba underscored Rwanda’s growing contribution to peace and security, especially through peacekeeping missions in Africa and beyond, and its strong engagement in regional and continental development initiatives, including the African Union’s Agenda 2063. He also commended the brotherly relations between Rwanda and Ethiopia, which continue to grow through cooperation in over 20 sectors such as trade, agriculture, health, air services, infrastructure, defence, and tourism. “Our countries are learning from one another, strengthening people-to-people ties, and advancing shared aspirations for peace and prosperity in Africa,” he noted. The event was also marked by statements from high-level guests who reaffirmed their countries' and institutions’ strong ties with Rwanda. The representative of Ethiopia, Semunigus Habtegiorgis, highlighted the historical ties between Rwanda and Ethiopia, dating back to the formation of the African Union. He emphasized the strategic cooperation in the aviation industry, a sector where both countries continue to collaborate closely. He also recalled Ethiopia’s contribution to peacekeeping during Rwanda’s difficult times, and hailed the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries’ leadership up to the highest level. The Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Selma Malika Haddadi, lauded Rwanda’s development and transformation, applauding President Kagame’s visionary leadership. She emphasised his significant contributions to the African Union, particularly as the Champion of AU Institutional Reforms and Domestic Health Financing. She also recognized Rwanda’s progress in governance, digital transformation, and policy innovation that continues to inspire other member states. Amb Karamba reaffirmed Rwanda’s unwavering commitment to multilateralism, international cooperation, and inclusive development. “We believe there is more that unites us than divides us. Together, we can overcome challenges and achieve great things,” he said.
