Around 200 members of Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi) from across the United Kingdom gathered in Brighton on July 18 to reflect on Rwanda's progress over the past 32 years and the role of Rwandans abroad in supporting the country's development. ALSO READ: Rwandan Diaspora in the UK Reflects on Their Homeland The event brought together different generations of Rwandans, including pioneers of the RPF community in the UK and younger members raised in Britain. Participants reflected on the country’s liberation journey and its transformation under the RPF. They also explored how the diaspora can continue contributing to nation-building. The programme featured a presentation on Rwanda's current opportunities and challenges, with participants reflecting on how Rwandans living abroad can contribute through their knowledge, skills and experience. ALSO READ: ‘Don’t diminish yourselves’: Kagame urges Rwandans to reject aid dependency Addressing the gathering, the chairperson of RPF UK, Egide Ruhashya, said the event demonstrated the unity and commitment of Rwandans living across the United Kingdom. “This gathering demonstrated the strength, unity and commitment of Rwandans across the United Kingdom.” Ruhashya said it was encouraging to see different generations come together to reflect on Rwanda’s history, celebrate the country’s progress and consider how the individuals can contribute to its continued development. “Our young people have an important responsibility as the leaders of tomorrow,” he said. ALSO READ: Kagame: Development gains must be reflected in citizen welfare Rwanda’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Johnston Busingye, said Rwanda's transformation has been built on unity, accountability, equal opportunity and a shared commitment to national development. He noted that Rwandans living abroad remain an important part of that journey. “By preserving our values, investing in the next generation and contributing their knowledge and experience, the Rwandan community in the UK can continue to play a meaningful role in building the Rwanda we want,” Busingye said. The gathering also underscored the importance of preserving Rwanda's culture and values and passing them on to younger generations. Participants paid tribute to those who sacrificed for Rwanda’s liberation and reflected on the country's achievements over the past 32 years under RPF leadership. ALSO READ: How rising remittances are becoming a source of investment They also highlighted priorities that they suggest should continue guiding Rwanda's development, including national unity, equal opportunities, accountability, self-reliance and thinking ambitiously. Speakers encouraged young people to embrace leadership, remain connected to their heritage and use their knowledge and skills to contribute to Rwanda's continued development. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Rwanda's development and expressing confidence in the country's future.
