Rwanda celebrated National Heroes' Day on Saturday, paying tribute to the national heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country and its citizens.
Observed under the theme "Heroism and Unity for Rwanda's Development", the annual celebration honours national heroes who upheld the highest values of patriotism, unity, and sacrifice.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame laid a wreath in memory of Rwanda's heroes before observing a moment of silence at the National Heroes Mausoleum in Remera Sector, Gasabo District in the capital Kigali. Senior government officials, the dean of the diplomatic corps, and families of Rwanda's fallen heroes also took part in honouring the national heroes.
In addition to the main ceremony, the celebrations were taken to the grassroots across the country, where Rwandans gathered together at the village level to pay tribute to the heroes who shaped Rwanda's future.
Speaking at a night concert organised in Kigali on the eve of National Heroes' Day, as part of the celebrations marking the occasion, Jean Damascene Bizimana, Rwanda's minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, urged Rwandans – especially leaders, educators, and parents – to instil in the younger generation fundamental Rwandan values such as patriotism, unity, and heroism.
He emphasised that Rwandan children should take the lead in their own development and understand that nothing holds greater worth than their country.
"They must be brought up with strong values and principles," Bizimana said.
Several activities were held during the Heroes' Week, including discussions about heroic values, concerts and sports games such as soccer, basketball, sitting volleyball and cycling.
The National Heroes' Day is observed every year on February 1.Â
