PHOTOS: Rwanda marks Liberation Day at Village level
President Paul Kagame Joined Ndiza citizens in Muhanga District to mark the 4th July
On 4th July, 2018, Rwandans across the country celebrated the 24th anniversary of the Liberation Day, reflecting on the time when Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994 was stopped and citizens embarked on a long journey to transform their country and lives.
The day was observed countrywide and among the Rwandan Diaspora globally under the theme; “Together we Prosper”, which emphasizes the importance of unity of Rwandans is for their development.
Citizens in their villages as here in Gasharu cell in Gasabo District met and talked about the meaning of liberation for Rwandans, what has been achieved in different areas of their lives, and share ideas on what can be done to sustain what was achieved and make more strides in improving their welfare.
During the celebration of this Historical Day in Gasharu Cell, Kinyinya Sector of Gasabo District, High School finalists awarded certificates of the completion of the Civic Education known as Itorere during which they learnt patriotism, social relations, sports, dancing, songs and defence.
During the handover of their certificates these young people were tasked to contribute their knowledge through community Development activities based on the courses undertook during the Six month Itorero training.
Every year Senior Six High School finalists participate in Itorero as a cultural school where Rwandans learn culture, values and security and defence skills.
This system was created so that young people could grow with an understanding of their culture and their contribution to the development of their country.
Kanyandekwe Dieudonne, in charge of social affairs and Development in Kinyinya sector referred to youth’s contribution in the liberation of Rwanda and requested Inkomezabigwi of Gasharu to be the engine of the development in their community.
He added that “The Sector is ready to support you once you bring in the project that contributes to the wellbeing of the community.”
The Executive of Gasharu Cell, Rukundo Theophile also use the opportunity to remind them that Itorero is also a formative training for future leaders.
As part of efforts to reconstruct Rwanda and nurture a shared national identity, the Government of Rwanda drew on aspects of Rwandan culture and traditional practices to enrich and adapt its development programs to the country’s needs and context.
The result is a set of Home Grown Solutions – culturally owned practices translated into sustainable development programs. One of these Home Grown Solutions is, also known as Itorero.
Itorero was reintroduced in 2009 as a way to rebuild the nation’s social fabric and mobilise Rwandans to uphold important cultural values. The culture of an intore (a person who has received the teachings of Itorero) is regarded highly.
Itorero creates opportunities for participants to enhance positive values, build a sense of responsibility through patriotism and gain professional knowledge.
More Photos:
