A powerful evening of remembrance and unity unfolded at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Jakarta as the Embassy of Rwanda hosted the 31st Kwibohora, or Liberation Day. The event commemorated Rwanda’s historic victory on July 4, 1994, which marked the end of the Genocide against the Tutsi—a tragedy that took over a million lives in just 100 days.

With more than 250 guests in attendance, including diplomats, members of the Rwandan community, and Indonesian allies, the event served as both a solemn reflection and a celebration of resilience. Under the theme “Kwibohora31: Rwanda’s Journey Continues,” the evening recognized the country’s transformation over the last three decades—from devastation to one of Africa’s most inspiring success stories.

In his remarks, Ambassador Sheikh Abdul Karim Harelimana reminded guests that the 1994 victory was not only military in nature but also moral. It symbolized the reclaiming of dignity and the unwavering belief in a unified Rwanda. He spoke of the nation’s milestones in governance, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and especially gender equality, noting that nearly 64 percent of Rwanda’s parliamentarians are women.

Ambassador Harelimana also shared Rwanda’s ambitions for the future through Vision 2050, which aims to build an inclusive, knowledge-driven, and high-income nation. Central to this vision is the promise that no Rwandan is left behind and that such a national tragedy will never be repeated.

Representing Indonesia, Ambassador Dindin Wahyudin, Senior Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Economic Diplomacy, praised Rwanda’s remarkable recovery and emphasized Indonesia’s dedication to strengthening bilateral ties. Since the Rwandan Embassy opened in Jakarta in 2024—coinciding with President Paul Kagame’s official visit—the two nations have deepened cooperation in trade, innovation, education, and cultural exchange.

More than a commemorative evening, the 31st Kwibohora in Jakarta was a beacon of hope and a celebration of human endurance. As Rwanda continues to rise, the event reminded attendees of the shared values that bind nations together and the potential that emerges when dignity, unity, and progress take the lead.