Hundreds of Indians resident in Rwanda yesterday met in Kigali for a flag raising ceremony to celebrate the 67th anniversary of India’s Independence.The event was organised by the Indian Association of Rwanda (INAR), a platform that provides a common identity to the Indian community in Rwanda through the promotion of unity, friendship and goodwill based on mutual understanding and cooperation.The community celebrated the Day by unfurling the national flag of India followed by cultural events, songs and speeches. Both the Rwandan and Indian anthems were sung at the colourful ceremony. India attained Independence on August 15, 1947 from Great Britain.Joseph Sebastian, the chairman of the association said that the community enjoys strong bilateral relations between Rwanda and India.“We are enjoying our stay in Rwanda. The Indian community has contributed a lot towards the economic transformation of Rwanda. We are seeing many Indian investors coming to invest in this beautiful country and we are happy to be part of Rwanda’s socio-economic development,” he said.Rwanda last month signed Rwf241 billion agreement with an Indian company, Punj Lloyd to develop 100 MW of peat energy in North Akanyaru, in Bugesera District, Eastern Province. India’s telecom giant, Airtel, started operations in Rwanda last year and intends to invest $130 million in the near future.
