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This evening, Lt Gen (Rtd) Charles Kayonga, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Turkey, delivered a deeply moving reflection on Rwanda’s path to unity and progress during an X Space conversation themed “The Cost of Loving One’s Country”.

The discussion, hosted by Intango y’Umurage in collaboration with Hobe Australia, revisited Rwanda’s historic liberation struggle—shedding light on the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering spirit of the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi).

Leadership That Guided a Nation

Ambassador Kayonga paid tribute to the young men and women who risked everything to end ethnic division and rebuild a nation torn apart by discrimination.

He credited President Paul Kagame’s visionary leadership for steering the RPA-Inkotanyi forces through one of the most defining chapters in Rwanda’s history.

“Everything the President said was executed with precision. He is a visionary leader whose words were always matched by action,” Ambassador Kayonga said.

Drawing from his experience commanding the 600 RPA soldiers at the CND, he underscored the vital role of discipline, vigilance, and teamwork in sustaining morale during the liberation struggle.

Lessons from the Liberation Struggle

Gen Kayonga reflected on the personal and collective sacrifices that defined the journey toward freedom

Early Inspiration: Even in their youth, the fighters were guided by a deep love for Rwanda and a commitment to justice

Enduring Challenges: Hunger, fear, and separation from loved ones tested their resolve, but unity kept them strong

Shared Motivation: The pursuit of freedom, justice, and national dignity bound them together

October 1, 1990: This date, he reminded listeners, marked the beginning of Rwanda’s liberation movement—a pivotal moment that redefined the nation’s destiny

“It was not easy, but with a single purpose, we overcame every obstacle,” he recalled

Transforming Rwanda: From Struggle to Stability

Reflecting on Rwanda’s transformation since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Ambassador Kayonga highlighted the country’s extraordinary progress

He cited rapid economic growth, strong international partnerships, and remarkable achievements in tourism, such as hosting Africa’s first world-class cycling event

According to him, these milestones stem from the same principles that guided the liberation movement—discipline, unity, and self-reliance

“The lessons we learned during the struggle continue to shape Rwanda’s development today,” he noted

Guidance for the Youth: Building the Future

Addressing Rwanda’s younger generation, Ambassador Kayonga urged them to embody the values that sustained the nation’s founders

Unity Above All: Prioritize collective interests over personal gain

Discipline and Integrity: Approach every responsibility with diligence and honesty

Courage and Resilience: Meet challenges with strength and perseverance

Active Citizenship: Engage meaningfully in decision-making and leadership

Peaceful Patriotism: Demonstrate love for the nation through constructive action

Continuous Development: Strive to build a prosperous, respected Rwanda

“The cost of loving one’s country is real,” he said, “but the rewards—peace, unity, and progress—are priceless”

A Legacy of Resilience and Hope

Ambassador Kayonga’s reflections serve as both a tribute and a reminder: Rwanda’s remarkable journey from devastation to development was built on courage, sacrifice, and shared purpose

The story of the RPF-Inkotanyi continues to inspire generations—proof that with visionary leadership, discipline, and unity, even the greatest challenges can be overcome.