The High Commission of the Republic of Rwanda in South Africa hosted a celebration in Pretoria to mark the 32nd Anniversary of Rwanda’s Liberation, bringing together representatives of the South African Government, members of the diplomatic corps, international organisations, partners, friends of Rwanda and the Rwandan community.

In his remarks, High Commissioner Emmanuel Hategeka reflected on the meaning of Kwibohora as the rebirth of a nation that chose “unity over division, accountability over blame, self-reliance over dependency, and long-term vision over short-term expediency.” He emphasised that liberation remains a continuing responsibility to build a society founded on dignity, equal opportunity, justice and security.

Guest of Honour Hon. Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral and Petroleum Resources and ANC National Chairperson, paid tribute to the resilience of the Rwandan people and reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. He stressed that “South Africa and Rwanda need one another” and that, in an increasingly complex global environment, “African unity is not merely desirable; it is indispensable.”

The celebration highlighted Rwanda’s remarkable journey of liberation, reconstruction and development, while reaffirming the growing friendship and renewed cooperation between Rwanda and South Africa.