RWANDA CELEBRATES KWIBOHORA32 IN BRASÍLIA THROUGH CULTURE, DIPLOMACY, AND THE STORY OF THE NATION'S TRANSFORMATION
Brasília (DF), Brazil – The Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in Brazil celebrated Kwibohora32 – Rwanda's Liberation Day on Tuesday (7), bringing together Brazilian authorities, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organizations, parliamentarians, academics, business leaders, and institutional partners in Brasília. The ceremony commemorated the 32nd Anniversary of Rwanda's Liberation, observed annually on 4 July, a historic date that marks the end of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda and the beginning of a comprehensive national reconstruction process founded on national unity, reconciliation, and development.
Held for the third consecutive year, the celebration reaffirmed Rwanda's growing diplomatic presence in Brazil and the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries. More than a national commemoration, the event offered Brazilian guests an opportunity to learn about Rwanda's recent history and the remarkable transformation that has made the country an internationally recognized model of good governance, innovation, sustainability, and security.
Kwibohora, which means "Liberation" in Kinyarwanda, represents one of the most significant milestones in Rwanda's contemporary history. The occasion marks the beginning of a new national vision focused on rebuilding institutions, promoting unity among Rwandans, and advancing a country driven by sustainable development, innovation, and good governance. Over the past 32 years, Rwanda has achieved internationally recognized progress in areas such as gender equality, public security, healthcare, education, digital transformation, and economic growth, becoming a leading example of development on the African continent.
During the ceremony, the Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to Brazil, Lawrence Manzi, emphasized that Liberation remains an enduring commitment to building a future grounded in collective responsibility, trust among citizens, and a shared vision of dignity and prosperity.
"And indeed for Rwanda, security and good governance is not simply one priority among many. It is the foundation upon which everything else is built. Without peace and security, there can be no development, no prosperity, and no opportunity. (…) "We believe that development is strengthened when countries share their experiences and learn from one another. For Rwanda, this is the essence of South-South cooperation: partnerships built on mutual respect, practical solutions, and a commitment to shared progress."
Representing the Government of Brazil, Ambassador Antonio Augusto Cesar, Director of the Department of Africa at Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between Brazil and Rwanda and expanding cooperation in strategic areas of mutual interest.
Throughout the evening, guests experienced different expressions of Rwandan culture. A group of performers showcased traditional dances that are an integral part of Rwanda's cultural heritage, while the reception featured authentic Rwandan cuisine, offering an immersive cultural experience that complemented the ceremony's diplomatic programme.
The celebration in Brasília also reflected the positive momentum in Rwanda–Brazil relations. In recent years, the two countries have expanded political dialogue and cooperation in sectors including agriculture, innovation, education, trade, investment, and technical exchange, creating new opportunities for collaboration between governments, universities, and the private sector.