The Chief of Civil-Military Cooperation in the Rwanda Defence Force (Chief J9), Colonel Désiré Migambi Mungamba, today addressed the fifth cohort Itorero Intagamburuzwa of RICA/2025, consisting of first-year students at the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture (RICA) in Bugesera District, urging them to embrace national values and embody the spirit of patriotism. The lecture was titled ‘The history of the Rwandan liberation struggle and stopping the 1994 genocide against Tutsi’.
Opening his lecture with a historical overview, he highlighted core Rwandan values, such as unity, integrity, patriotism, peace, and sustainability, which once defined Rwandan identity and societal harmony. He emphasized that these values were traditionally nurtured through institutions like Itorero and demonstrated in practical settings such as Urugerero (national service).
Colonel Migambi underscored the deep-rooted philosophy of Rwandan patriotism, referencing the traditional belief that “Rwanda is not just a geographical space, but a spirit of dignity.” He cited historical heroes whose sacrifice, symbolized by accolades like Umudende, Impotore, and Gucanirwa uruti, laid the foundation for Rwandan resilience and sovereignty.
The Chief J9 explained how the Rwanda Patriotic Army restored unity and dignity following decades of bad governance. He noted that the RPA’s military operations were not only aimed at national liberation but also at stopping the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. He credited the success of the liberation struggle to the discipline and strategic leadership of the Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame.
He encouraged students to uphold discipline, steer clear of negative behaviours such as drug abuse. He urged the youth to counter genocide denial, misinformation, and divisive narratives. He called on them to be forward-thinking, courageous, and purpose-driven.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs in RICA, Michelle Ntukanyagwe, expressed appreciation to the RDF for its continued collaboration in delivering civic education to RICA students. She noted that the delivered lecture served as a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s history of self-sacrifice (ubwitange), heroism, and resilience that laid the foundation for today’s peaceful and united nation.
She affirmed that the values shared during the session offers an important lesson for students to remain committed to building the country through unity, peace, and sustainable development particularly by recognizing and embracing the vital role of young people. (End)