President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame have visited two important historical monuments in Cambodia, paying tribute to the country’s independence struggle and former King Norodom Sihanouk, who played a leading role in securing its freedom.
The visits took place on Friday, November 13, 2026, in Phnom Penh, as part of President Kagame’s state visit to the Southeast Asian country.
The two monuments included the Independence Monument and the memorial dedicated to Norodom Sihanouk, widely known as the King-Father.
Built in 1958, the Independence Monument commemorates Cambodia’s independence from French colonial rule, which was achieved on November 9, 1953, after decades under French administration.
Standing 20 metres tall, the monument features traditional Khmer architectural designs inspired by the temples of Angkor. It is among the country’s most important landmarks and serves as a focal point for national independence celebrations and tributes to those who contributed to the liberation struggle.
President Kagame and First Lady Jeannette also visited the memorial of Norodom Sihanouk, who is remembered for his central role in Cambodia’s fight for independence.
Sihanouk became King of Cambodia in 1941 and led efforts to secure independence, which the country achieved in 1953. He remained influential in the country’s political affairs and later returned to the throne in 1993, serving until his abdication in 2004.
He died on October 15, 2012, aged 90, in Beijing, China. He continues to be remembered by Cambodians as one of the most influential figures in their country’s history.
The state visit by President Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation between Rwanda and Cambodia across various sectors.
