President Paul Kagame on Saturday warned that divisive ideology that contributed to Rwanda’s past violence has not disappeared, urging citizens to remain united as the country marked the 32nd anniversary of Liberation Day.
Kagame said such ideas still exist in different forms across the region and should not be underestimated.
“They still exist in different forms and remain visible across our region,” he said. “We have seen too much and suffered enough that we can never treat these dangerous ideas lightly.”
He said Rwanda endured years of exclusion, intimidation and division before its liberation, which aimed to restore dignity and rights to citizens.
Kagame paid tribute to former soldiers of the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA-Inkotanyi), crediting them for ending the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and shaping the country’s present.
“I would like to begin by thanking the former RPA soldiers for the courage and dedication they showed in changing the course of our country’s history,” he said.
Kagame said Rwanda’s progress over the past 32 years is grounded in security and good governance, which he described as essential and non-negotiable.
“We do not seek anyone else’s approval when it comes to our security,” he said. “Without security, nothing else is possible.”
He reaffirmed that the genocide would never be repeated.
“It will never happen again for one simple reason,” he said. “We will never allow it.”
Addressing young people, Kagame said Rwanda’s future depends on its citizens, not external actors.
“There are people who may support us… but anyone can turn their back on you whenever they choose,” he said.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that every Rwandan can live in peace and prosper in their own country.”
He said liberation remains an ongoing process reflected in improving citizens’ lives and strengthening unity.
“Our future lies ahead of us,” Kagame said. “If we continue to build unity and reject division, nothing will be beyond our reach.”
Kagame said Rwanda’s achievements over the past 32 years speak for themselves and called on citizens to remain committed to the country’s chosen path.
He concluded his address by wishing all Rwandans a happy Liberation Day.
