Members of the Rwandan community and friends of Rwanda from across Switzerland gathered in Geneva on Saturday to celebrate the 32nd Anniversary of Rwanda's Liberation (Kwibohora32) under the theme "Rwanda's Journey Continues." Organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in Switzerland and the Rwandan Community in Switzerland, the celebration brought together Rwandans of different generations to honour the country's liberation, celebrate Rwanda's remarkable transformation over the past 32 years, and reflect on the role of the diaspora and youth in shaping the nation's future.

In her keynote address, Ambassador Urujeni Bakuramutsa paid tribute to the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA), whose courage, sacrifice and discipline brought Rwanda's liberation and laid the foundation for a united, peaceful and prosperous nation.

"The Rwanda Patriotic Army, under the visionary leadership of H.E. Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, played a decisive role in the liberation of our country. Through its courage, sacrifice and discipline, it ended the genocidal regime and paved the way for national reconstruction." 

Ambassador Urujeni highlighted Rwanda's remarkable journey of unity, reconciliation and socio-economic transformation over the past three decades and called on all Rwandans, particularly the younger generation, to uphold the values of patriotism, integrity and service while contributing to Rwanda's continued development. She also encouraged members of the Rwandan community in Switzerland to remain united, strenghen the shared Rwandan identity, and actively continue to contribute to  Rwanda's socio-economic progress. 

Representing the Rwandan Community in Switzerland, Emmanuel Rugomboka reflected on the important contribution of the diaspora during the liberation struggle and emphasized that its role remains equally vital today through continued engagement in Rwanda's development and prosperity.

A central feature of this year's celebration was an intergenerational dialogue under the theme "Honouring the Past, Inspiring the Future: The Role of the Diaspora and Youth in Rwanda's Journey." Mr.  Jacques Nkurunziza who participated in the liberation of Rwanda in 1994  as a Member of the Rwandan Patriotic Army,  shared first-hand reflections on the values of sacrifice, patriotism and responsibility that shaped the Liberation Struggle. Mary Balikungeri highlighted the contribution of the diaspora to Rwanda's liberation and nation-building, while youth representatives Josiane Aboniyo and Ulrich Gahigi reflected on what Kwibohora means for the younger  generation and encouraged young Rwandans to preserve the values of unity, resilience and patriotism while contributing to Rwanda's future.

The celebration also featured cultural  performances by renowned Rwandan artists Mariya Yohana and Lionel Sentore, alongside the Switzerland-based Rwandan traditional dance troupe Urunana. Through music and dance, the performances celebrated Rwanda's rich cultural heritage while reflecting the unity, resilience and shared identity that continue to bring generations together.