By Dennis Gichuiri
Kenya and Rwanda have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, regional integration and peace-building as Rwanda commemorated the 32nd anniversary of its Liberation Day (Kwibohora 32) at the Rwanda High Commission in Gigiri.
Speaking on behalf of the Government of Kenya, Ambassador Michael Kiboino, Secretary for Foreign Service Administration and Management in the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, congratulated Rwanda on its remarkable transformation since the end of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, describing the country’s recovery as an inspiration to Africa and the world.
Kiboino said Kwibohora marks more than a historic military victory, noting that it symbolizes Rwanda’s resilience, reconciliation and national renewal following one of humanity’s darkest tragedies.
“Rwanda’s journey from unimaginable tragedy to renewal stands as a powerful reminder that even from the deepest wounds, a nation can rise stronger, united by a common purpose and shared destiny,” he said.
He praised Rwanda’s achievements in governance, economic transformation, technological innovation, healthcare, education and gender equality, attributing the progress to visionary leadership, national unity and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
Kiboino also reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to its longstanding partnership with Rwanda, saying the two countries continue to work together in promoting peace, security, trade and sustainable development through regional frameworks such as the East African Community, the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The celebrations also featured remarks by Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Kenya, Ambassador Ernest Rwamucyo, who reflected on Rwanda’s journey over the last three decades under the theme “Rwanda’s Journey Continues.”
The envoy described Liberation Day as a celebration of hope over despair, unity over division and nationhood over hatred, saying the country’s liberation restored peace, security and dignity after the genocide that claimed more than one million lives in 1994.
He noted that Rwanda has since become globally recognised for advances in governance, gender equality, healthcare, innovation, environmental protection and digital transformation, achievements he said demonstrate what is possible through unity, discipline and accountable leadership.
However, the High Commissioner warned that genocide ideology remains a threat, particularly in the Great Lakes region, urging the international community to confront hate speech, violent extremism and ethnic discrimination before they escalate into violence.
“Genocide begins not with weapons but with words, with hatred, incitement, discrimination and the systematic dehumanization of others,” he said, calling for stronger regional and international cooperation to combat extremist ideologies.
Rwamucyo expressed gratitude to Kenya for its steadfast support during Rwanda’s post-liberation reconstruction, noting that the two nations have maintained close cooperation in trade, education, investment and regional integration.
“The relationship between Rwanda and Kenya is built on mutual respect, shared aspirations and Pan-African solidarity,” he said, thanking the Kenyan government, development partners and the diplomatic community for supporting Rwanda’s development journey.
Addressing young people, the envoy challenged them to become ambassadors of peace, reconciliation and unity by rejecting hate, misinformation and genocide denial while embracing innovation, integrity and responsible leadership.
“The future of Rwanda, the future of Kenya, the future of Africa and indeed the future of our shared humanity are intertwined and rest in your hands,” he said.
The event brought together senior Kenyan government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organisations, development partners and members of the Rwandan community in Kenya, underscoring the enduring friendship between the two neighbouring countries and their shared commitment to peace, regional cooperation and sustainable development.
