President Paul Kagame on Saturday marked Rwanda’s Liberation Day by warning that divisive ideology that fueled past violence still exists in different forms and must not be ignored.
Speaking during the 32nd anniversary celebrations, Kagame said Rwanda’s history of exclusion and division should serve as a continued reminder of the need to protect national unity.
“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 the liberation struggle was aimed at restoring dignity and rights to Rwandans after years of discrimination and political exclusion.
Kagame paid tribute to the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA-Inkotanyi), crediting them for their role in ending the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and shaping Rwanda’s recovery. He said many who fought did not live to see today’s Rwanda but left a lasting legacy.
“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.
He said Rwanda’s progress over the past 32 years is grounded in security and good governance, describing security as essential and non-negotiable.
“We do not seek anyone else’s approval when it comes to our security,” Kagame said. “Without security, nothing else is possible.”
The president reiterated that the genocide would never be repeated.
“It will never happen again for one simple reason,” he said. “We will never allow it.”
Kagame also called on young people to recognize that Rwanda’s future depends primarily on its citizens, not external actors, noting that support from others cannot always be guaranteed.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that every Rwandan can live in peace and prosper in their own country,” he said.
He said liberation remains an ongoing process reflected in efforts to strengthen unity and improve citizens’ welfare.
“Our future lies ahead of us,” he 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 reflect resilience and urged citizens to remain committed to the country’s chosen path. He concluded his address by wishing Rwandans a happy Liberation Day.
