Rwanda’s liberation in 1994 was not merely the end of a war but the beginning of a new vision, a commitment to never return to tribal divisions, hatred, and despair, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Egypt, Dan Munyuza noted on Friday, July 11. ALSO READ: The liberation struggle was not an obvious victory – Kagame Munyuza who is also the country’s envoy accredited to Algeria, Libya, and Oman, was speaking at a grand reception in Cairo, Egypt, hosted to mark the 31st anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation Day. “It was a promise to create a nation where all Rwandans, regardless of background, could live in dignity, peace, and mutual respect,” he said. PHOTOS: The Rwandan community in Egypt, joined by Egyptian government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and friends of #Rwanda, on Friday gathered to celebrate 31 years of Rwanda’s liberation. #Kwibohora31 @RwandainEgypt pic.twitter.com/pIjCy5L54R — The New Times (Rwanda) (@NewTimesRwanda) July 11, 2025 The event brought together senior Egyptian government officials, including Hani Sewilam, the Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Arab Republic of Egypt, who was the guest of honour, diplomats, business leaders, academics, media representatives, and friends of Rwanda for an evening of reflection and celebration. The commemoration, honoured the important moment in Rwandan history when, on July 4, 1994, the country emerged from the horrors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Munyuza said that since liberation, Rwanda has undergone a remarkable transformation. From rebuilding national institutions to empowering youth and women, investing in healthcare and education, and creating a thriving innovation-driven economy, Rwanda today stands as a model of resilience and sustainable development. “The country has maintained strong economic growth—averaging 7 to 8 percent annually over the last three decades—and is ranked among the top African nations for ease of doing business,” he noted. “Let this 31st Liberation Day commemoration be a reminder that from even the greatest pain, renewal is possible. That with visionary and hardworking leadership, unity and purpose, a nation can rise from tragedy to prosperity,” he added. Munyuza commended Egypt’s continued solidarity with Rwanda for the unwavering support towards Rwanda’s transformation journey. The celebration also highlighted Rwandan culture, provided networking opportunities, and promoted the country’s tourism and investment potential, inviting guests to explore attractions like gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Big Five safaris in Akagera. ALSO READ: Rwanda’s tourism generates $647m in 2024, eyes over $700m in 2025 “Rwanda’s extraordinary progress over the past 30 years is a true reflection of visionary leadership, national healing, and a steadfast commitment to inclusive growth and development,” said Minister Sewilam. Sewilam highlighted the growing cooperation between Rwanda and Egypt, driven by a shared vision for regional stability and sustainable development. He announced an upcoming Memorandum of Understanding on Water Resources Management in Rwanda, focusing on catchment protection, groundwater well drilling, rainwater harvesting, and capacity building to improve water access and climate resilience. He commended Rwanda’s active role in regional water diplomacy through the Nile Basin Initiative (NBI), acknowledging Rwanda’s constructive engagement on the NBI Consultative Committee and its commitment to inclusivity and consensus within the framework. “We strongly rely on Rwanda’s constructive role to increase cooperation between Nile Basin states and maintain the sustainability of the Nile River. This is vital common water resource,” he said. Both leaders reiterated the importance of mutual support and collaboration in addressing continental challenges and advancing Africa’s development agenda. Guests were also encouraged to explore Rwanda as a destination for business, tourism, and innovation, with Munyuza showcasing the country’s efficient business environment and world-renowned wildlife experiences.
