Rwanda’s ability to rebuild and regain confidence after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi was rooted in national unity, the Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr Jean Damascène Bizimana, has said.
Speaking on the evening of January 31, 2026, at the 32nd Heroes’ Day tribute concert held at the Kigali Conference and Exhibition Village (KCEV), Dr Bizimana said unity enabled Rwandans to overcome the devastation of genocide and lay the foundations for sustainable development.
“National unity is what saved Rwanda. It is what brought us out of darkness into the light,” he said. “It is what enabled us to rebuild after the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994 and to restore hope and confidence in the future.”
The concert was organised under the theme “Heroism and National Unity: Pillars of Development.”
Dr Bizimana said Rwanda’s national heroes left behind enduring lessons, particularly the values of patriotism, sacrifice and commitment to defending the country. He stressed that development is driven by citizens who willingly dedicate themselves to serving and protecting their nation.
“A country is built by people who love it and are prepared to work for it and defend it,” he said.
Culture and language as pillars of progress
The minister also highlighted the role of culture and language in national development, noting that Kinyarwanda, Rwandan cultural values and learning from history remain central to building a cohesive and resilient society.
He said preserving cultural identity while drawing lessons from the past has strengthened unity and contributed to Rwanda’s long-term stability and growth.
Heroes’ Day concert draws thousands
The tribute concert attracted thousands of people and served as a platform for remembrance, appreciation and renewed commitment to nation-building, with particular focus on the role of young people.
The event opened with performances by the Indatirwabahizi Cultural Troupe from the City of Kigali, which showcased Rwandan culture and heroism through traditional songs and dances honouring national heroes.
They were followed by the Urukerereza Cultural Troupe, performing alongside artist Ruti Joel and veteran musician Masamba Intore, who continued to energise the audience with patriotic performances.
Dr Bizimana later joined performers on stage during Masamba Intore’s song “Ntimugire Ubwoba,” alongside DJ Marnaud, drawing applause from the crowd.
Singer Kitoko Bibarwa then performed several popular songs, including Isi n’Abantu, Sibyo, Akabuto and Thank You Kagame. He was followed by the Army Jazz Band, which delivered performances centred on heroism, patriotism and national development.
The concert concluded with singer Bwiza, who closed the night with well-known songs including Iyo Twicaranye, Ahazaza and Ready.
The event was held a day ahead of Heroes’ Day, marked annually on February 1. This year’s commemoration marked the 32nd anniversary, under the national theme “Heroism and Unity in Rwanda’s Development.”
