Rwandan Women Reflect on Role in Liberation, 31 Years Later

As Rwanda marks 31 years since the end of the Liberation War, women in Nyagatare District are celebrating not only national peace and development, but also their personal role in shaping the country’s future.

Many of these women were teenagers when they joined the liberation struggle led by the Rwandan Patriotic Army in the early 1990s. Today, they are mothers and community leaders, raising children in the very country they fought to free.

“We are proud that we dared to step forward,” said Muteteri Jane, a former fighter. “We committed to the cause of liberating Rwanda, and today we see the results. We achieved our goal.”

The women were part of a broader group of Rwandans who took up arms to end decades of exile, discrimination, and injustice. After the war, many were demobilized but remained active in community development.

Mukamurigo Console, who was born in exile, recalled the moment she heard the call to return and fight for her homeland.

“I was just a teenager, but I felt it was worth risking my life,” she said. “I had only heard stories about Rwanda, but I knew I wanted to be part of the change. Today, we celebrate not only survival, but victory.”

The weeklong Liberation Day celebrations in Nyagatare included historical dialogues, recognition of veterans, and the inauguration of new infrastructure projects—symbolizing the continued development that has followed peace.

“In the early ’90s, places like Tabagwe and Karama were scenes of gunfire and fear,” said Kobusinge, another former fighter. “Now we see electricity, schools, hospitals—even paved roads. We didn’t just win a war; we are winning in development, too.”

Brig. Gen. Pascal Muhizi said Rwanda’s achievements are a result of the commitment and sacrifice of the Rwandan Patriotic Front.

“The 31 years of liberation we are celebrating today are thanks to the courage and sacrifice of those who stood up when it mattered most,” he said. “Young men and women believed it was time for change, and they made it happen.”

As Rwanda continues to grow, the women of Nyagatare say they remain proud of their contribution and committed to passing on the values of resilience and unity to the next generation.