On July 4, Rwanda marks 31 years since the end of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, an important moment in the nation's history known as Kwibohora, or Liberation Day. This solemn yet celebratory occasion commemorates the day the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi) brought an end to 100 days of horror and stopped one of the most tragic atrocities of the 20th century.

Kwibohora, meaning “liberation,” is not only the end of genocide, it is the beginning of Rwanda’s transformation. It represents a nation’s rebirth, the restoration of dignity, and a renewed sense of hope. Each year, Rwandans and friends of Rwanda come together to honor this defining moment in the country’s history. This year’s theme, “Rwanda’s Journey Continues,” is a powerful reminder that the work of nation-building is ongoing.

Since Rwanda’s liberation on July 4, 1994, the country has undergone a historic transformation. Emerging from the devastation of genocide, the nation has become one of Africa’s most resilient and forward-looking economies. In 1994, GDP was just $752 million — as of 2024, it stands at over $14.25 billion. Between 2017 and 2024, real GDP per capita rose by 37%, while employment among those aged 16 and above increased from 44% to 54%. These figures reflect a nation steadily building a resilient and inclusive economy.

Rwanda has emerged as a leader in governance and business reform, ranking among the top globally in the World Bank’s 2024 B-READY report for its exceptional business environment performance. In addition, the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International awarded Rwanda its highest-ever score of 57%, making it the least corrupt country in East Africa, and the 3rd least corrupt in Sub-Saharan Africa. The country has also become a thriving hub for eco-tourism, international business, and digital innovation, all while maintaining a strong sense of community and cultural pride. A hallmark of this progress is Rwanda’s global leadership in gender equality, remaining the first and only nation with a female-majority parliament, where women hold 63.75% of seats in the Chamber of Deputies.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Igor Marara remarked, “Kwibohora is a day of remembrance, pride, and purpose. It reminds us not only of how far we have come as a nation, but also of the strength of our partnerships, like that with the State of Qatar, that support Rwanda’s continued journey of transformation. As we honor the past, we remain committed to building a prosperous and inclusive future for all Rwandans.”

While today we reflect on how far Rwanda has come, this is not the end of the journey. Guided by Vision 2050, Rwanda aims to become a high-income nation built on prosperity, sustainability, and inclusivity. Projects focused on human development, green urbanization, modern agriculture, and innovation-led industries are at the heart of this national agenda.

With a vibrant, youthful population and a commitment to unity and self-reliance, Rwanda continues to write a future of hope, opportunity, and dignity for all.