National Heroes’ Day observed very on February 1 honours individuals recognised for extraordinary deeds that benefitted the nation, whether through sacrifice, leadership, moral courage or service to unity and development. ALSO READ: CHENO unveils activities for Heroes Day celebration The Chancellery for Heroes, National Orders and Decorations of Honour (CHENO) defines a hero as a person who selflessly pursues a chosen goal to its fulfilment, resulting in an extraordinary act that benefits others. Acts of heroism are understood broadly, spanning the defence of the nation, protection of citizens, promotion of justice, unity, economic and social development, good governance, education, science and technology, as well as peace and security. Rwanda officially recognises three categories of National Heroes: Imanzi, Imena, Ingenzi. They are ranked from the highest level of distinction. ALSO READ: THROUGH PICTURES: Rwanda marks 31st National Heroes Day According to Nicolas Rwaka, Division Manager for Research on Heroism, Outstanding Achievers and Decorations at CHENO, the titles of the hero categories were not selected solely for their direct association with heroism. Rather, he said, they were chosen for their cultural meaning, ease of use and linguistic relevance, reflecting terms that naturally exist in Kinyarwanda and resonate with Rwandan values. ALSO READ: Heroes Day: Kagame urges Rwandans to uphold unity, truth “However, although research was conducted, the exact reasons behind choosing these names were not formally explained,” Rwaka told The New Times. “Still, when you interpret them through Kinyarwanda, it is clear that these are words with deep meaning rooted in Rwandan culture. That said, there is no written document that explicitly defines what each of these names officially means.” Categorises of national heroes The categories form the basis of how heroism is taught, remembered and institutionalised. 1. Imanzi The highest category, Imanzi, is reserved for individuals whose actions demonstrated exceptional and unparalleled bravery, sacrifice, resulting in national impact. This category includes only deceased heroes whose conduct is considered exemplary beyond comparison. “Imanzi in Kinyarwanda refers to something that is pure and without blemish, which is why it represents the highest category reserved for exceptional heroes,” said Rwaka. Among those honoured in the Imanzi category is the Unknown Soldier, a symbolic figure representing all Rwandan soldiers whose identities could not be established but who died or risked their lives in defence of the nation. On Heroes’ Day, this symbol serves as a collective tribute to sacrifice made across generations to safeguard Rwanda’s sovereignty, national unity and independence. Also recognised under Imanzi is Maj Genl Fred Gisa Rwigema (1957-1990), a central figure in Rwanda’s liberation struggle. Born in Kamonyi District, Rwigema grew up as a refugee in Uganda after his family fled the violence against Tutsi in 1959-1960. Rwigema received military and political training in the region, joined liberation movements in Mozambique and Uganda, and rose to senior leadership within Uganda’s National Resistance Army. He was instrumental in forming and restructuring the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi) and led preparations for the October 1990 liberation struggle. He was killed on October 2, 1990, the second day of the offensive to liberate Rwanda. Rwigema is remembered for courage, discipline, humility and unwavering commitment to national liberation. 2. Imena The Imena category recognises heroes who displayed outstanding courage and dedication, with actions that had a profound and lasting impact on the country. This category may include both deceased and living heroes. “Imena suggests something elevated or outstanding, something visible among important things, reflecting admirable examples and significant contribution,” Rwaka said. Under this category is King Mutara III Rudahigwa (1911-1959), who is honoured for promoting unity, justice and reform during his reign, independence from colonialism. He fought famine, supported education, abolished forced labour practices and opposed ethnic discrimination, while advocating for Rwanda’s independence from Belgium. Rudahigwa died unexpectedly in 1959 in Bujumbura, Burundi, shortly before presenting Rwanda’s case at the United Nations. There is also Michel Rwagasana (1927-1963), an independence activist, diplomat and parliamentarian, remembered for championing national unity and opposing ethnic division. He was killed for his political convictions, becoming a symbol of patriotism and sacrifice. Agathe Uwilingiyimana (1953-1994), Rwanda’s first female Prime Minister, is recognised for her reformist leadership and commitment to equality in education and governance. She was assassinated on April 7, 1994, at the start of the Genocide against the Tutsi, as she prepared to deliver a message of comfort and reassurance to Rwandans on national radio. Félicité Niyitegeka (1934-1994), a Catholic nun, is honoured for choosing to remain with people seeking refuge during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, refusing offers of safety and dying alongside those she protected. Her actions embody moral courage and humanity. The Nyange Students are also recognised under the Imena category. During an insurgent attack on their school in Ngororero District in March 1997, students refused orders to separate along ethnic lines, declaring, “We are all Rwandans” before their assailants. Several were killed and others injured, but their stand became a powerful national symbol of unity. Of the 47 officially recognised heroes, seven were killed during the attack. 39 are still alive. 3. Ingenzi The third category, Ingenzi, honours individuals whose ideas or actions made valuable contributions to the nation, marked by commitment, positive influence and admirable example. Like Imena, this category may include both living and deceased heroes. “Ingenzi refers to someone who is important in life and significant in their actions. This category currently has no honourees because research is still ongoing, and no individual has yet met the criteria. Once such a person is identified, they will be added to the list of heroes,” Rwaka said.
