You are our ambassadors

Rumanzi and Masozera addressing the KIU students

From October 27 to 30, 2009 Kampala International University (KIU) Banyarwanda student Association visited Rwanda and met officials from various institutions including the National Electoral Commission during their one week tour. On Thursday, October 29, 2009, in the conference room of MINAFFET, the students met both Robert Masozera, Director General in the Ministry of Foreign affairs who has coordination of Rwandan Diaspora within his remit, and Protais Rumanzi, Director of Electoral Operations in the National Electoral Commission.

Addressing the students, Masozera expressed what Rwanda expects from the Diaspora but also raised concern about the slow process of unity and reconciliation among the Diaspora, which is worse in Europe and America.  Masozera called upon the students to make more effort in promoting unity and cohesion among Rwandans all over the world so that they can meet expectations, including promoting the image of Rwanda.

Mr. Masozera said: “If you are united you will be respected, if you are divided you will perish…Bear in mind that you are our ambassadors, you are the strength of your country”.

Mr. Rumanzi went on to emphasize on cohesion among Rwandans: “Let us work on our ‘rwandity’, that’s what we’ve been lacking through our history”.

The students were briefed on the ongoing preparations for the August 9, 2010 presidential elections and had a chance to ask for clarifications and express their views about the elections. They could not hold their excitement about turning out and vote in the forthcoming elections because they understand what the elections really mean to Rwandans. Furthermore, they feel duty bound to sensitize other Rwandans, especially students in the Diaspora, about getting involved in the elections.