The Secretary of State for Regional Cooperation, General (Rtd) James Kabarebe, has called on the youth to carry forward the work of previous generations in building Rwanda into the nation it is today. Speaking at the 15th Indangamirwa Church, he reminded the 443 youth members, who joined the church since its establishment on July 1, 2025, that the country was rebuilt from nothing following the 1994 genocide.
In his lecture, General Kabarebe detailed the history of Rwanda’s struggle for liberation. He explained that Rwandan refugees, barred from returning to their homeland and facing persecution in neighboring countries, united to form the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF Inkotanyi) with a military wing, the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA). Together with other allies committed to fighting injustice, they launched a liberation struggle.
The military campaign officially began on October 1, 1990. During the early stages, the forces suffered losses, including the death of senior leader Major General Fred Gisa Rwigema. General Kabarebe recounted how these setbacks could have discouraged the movement, but then-student Paul Kagame, who was studying in the United States at the time, returned to rally and guide the struggling forces.
He also noted the international dynamics, including support for the then-government of President Habyarimana from countries such as France and Mobutu’s Zaire. Despite these challenges, the RPF persevered, regaining morale and continuing the fight that ultimately led to Rwanda’s liberation and rebuilding.
General Kabarebe concluded by emphasizing that today’s youth must learn from this history and remain committed to national unity, development, and the continued progress of Rwanda.
