The weekend of February 2-3, 2024, marked an unforgettable time in the DMV area as streams of flights descended upon Dulles, DCA, and BWI airports bringing thousands of Rwandans and friends of Rwanda for "Rwanda Day 2024” in Washington D.C.
"Rwanda Day” stands as a remarkable homegrown initiative, marking the largest event hosted beyond Rwanda's borders. 

Held at Gaylord National Harbor, Rwanda Day 2024 brought together approximately 6000 Rwandans and friends of Rwanda from around the world. Attendees not only had the honor of meeting the President of the Republic of Rwanda but also engaged in discussions on matters of national importance. The event was also a great platform for Rwandans and friends of Rwanda to reunite, catchup, and celebrate the milestones of our country accomplished since its rebirth 1994. 
It was enriched by a cultural performance done by Rwandan teens and young people that live in the US, demonstrating their deep connection to the rich culture back home. 

In his welcoming remark, Mr. Yehoyada Mbangukira, President of the 29 local Rwandan Communities in the US, set the tone by emphasizing the importance of Rwanda Day and how it passes on Rwanda's legacy to the younger generation: “We want to make sure that the future of Rwandan is in the right hands of of the young generation.  The young generation that are here today can carry on the legacy and the lessons of today.  They can contribute to building the Rwanda we want--the Rwanda they deserve.”

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hon. Vincent Biruta spoke about Rwanda's expanded foreign policy, its diplomatic missions worldwide, and its partnerships with other countries, especially in peace and security efforts. “Our global diplomatic standing is solid and firm. We have opened up a number of diplomatic missions across the globe including the latest in Latin America and the overall intention of the missions is to open up new opportunities for Rwandans”

Thematic panel discussions focused on the transformation that Rwanda has undertaken over the past 30 years. Topics covered ranged from business/ investment opportunities, security and geo-politics, latest innovations in the healthcare sector as well as opportunities in the sports and entertainment space. 
Pastor Rick Warren praised Rwanda's remarkable achievements over the years, calling it the greatest success story of the 21st century.
On her part, Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana praised the Rwandan community in N. America and friends of Rwanda for turning up in record numbers to receive the President. She described it as “unprecedented" in the history of Rwanda-day to have such huge crowds in the middle of the cold winter season. “Mr. President, this is a sign of the admiration your people here have for you. It’s a token of appreciation for what you’ve done for our country.”

You can leave Rwanda and go wherever you want, but Rwanda should not leave you.- President Kagame 

When the moment that was eagerly awaited came, President Kagame was welcomed by a mammoth chanting of "Ni wowe... ni wowe," which means "It's you, it's you," while waving Rwandan flags and chanting songs. 

President Kagame began his address by appreciating earlier speakers who commended Rwanda's leadership and transformation. He emphasized the importance of collective effort, stating that success is not solely dependent on one person or leader: “Rwanda got the leadership it deserved and I am saying this to remind all of us that nothing works just because of one person or one leader but things work because of the collective effort.”
He challenged the diaspora members to remain united and engage in constructive projects that not only uplift their personally lives but also contribute in the transformation of our country. “People say if you want to go fast go alone. If you want to go far, go together. I want us to go together but I want us to go fast and reach far at the same time. There’s no contradiction.”

The event also featured a Q&A session where participants interacted with the President, discussing Rwanda's development agenda.
Side events included exhibitions of Rwandan products and services, as well as a career corner for young professionals to explore job and educational opportunities.
A Business Forum on February 2, provided a platform for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and investors to explore partnerships and opportunities in Rwanda, with panelists discussing the dynamics of professional endeavors in the diaspora and homeland contexts. 

As attendees departed, inspired by the spirited shared vision for Rwanda's future, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to contributing to the nation's ongoing journey of transformation. In the words of President Kagame, " You can leave Rwanda and go wherever you want, but Rwanda should not leave you," encapsulating the enduring bond between Rwandans, wherever they may be, and their beloved homeland.

Catch up on some of the exciting moments and highlights from Rwanda Day 2024 by checking out the photos HERE or watching the highlights video. You can also watch the recorded live video feed HERE.
Additionally, you can search on Twitter using the #Rwandaday.