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Hon. Protais Musoni, Chairperson of the Pan-African Movement – Rwanda Chapter, delivering a public lecture on “Inter-generational Approach to Development” during the 62nd African Liberation Day commemoration at UR Rukara Campus

As part of the 62nd African Liberation Day (ALD) commemorations, Hon. Protais Musoni, Chairperson of the Pan-African Movement (PAM) – Rwanda Chapter, delivered a thought-provoking presentation during a Public Talk held at the University of Rwanda-Rukara Campus. The event, held on 22 May 2025, was jointly organized by the University of Rwanda – College of Education (UR-CE) and PAM Rwanda Chapter under the theme : “Inter-generational Approach to Development : Panacea for Stability and Economic Independence of Africa.”

Students and staff of UR Rukara Campus attentively follow the Public Lecture on Pan-Africanism, held in celebration of the 62nd African Liberation Day.

In his address, Hon. Musoni opened by expressing gratitude to the University of Rwanda – College of Education and the organizing team, while also paying tribute to African heroes who led the struggle for the continent’s liberation. He emphasized the significance of African Liberation Day, celebrated annually since 1963, as a moment to reflect on the fight for independence, assess current progress, and renew the commitment to Africa’s ongoing journey toward full freedom and self-reliance.

From left to right : Prof Florien Nsanganwimana (UR-CE Acting Principal), Hon. Protais Musoni (Chairperson, PAM Rwanda Chapter), John Bosco Nyemazi (Mayor of Kayonza District), Jean Damascène Harerimana (Vice Mayor for Social Affairs, Kayonza), during the African Liberation Day Public Lecture held at UR Rukara Campus.

Why intergenerational dialogue matters
Explaining the relevance of this year’s theme, Hon. Musoni noted that Africa’s liberation is far from complete. While political independence has been achieved in most African nations, economic liberation remains an ongoing struggle. He stressed the need for intergenerational dialogue and collaboration in tackling these enduring challenges, warning that without a shared understanding across generations, Africa risks losing touch with the wisdom of its past and the vision needed for its future.
“Liberation is not a one-off event,” he said. “Each generation must contribute to pushing back the frontiers of poverty, dependency, and underdevelopment.”
He urged students and educators to be conscious of their role in shaping the continent’s destiny, highlighting the importance of embracing African values and rejecting attitudes that diminish the continent’s dignity. He cautioned against what he called a “duality of identity,” where people devalue their own heritage in favour of external models, and emphasized the need to build confidence in African-led solutions.

Knowledge and wealth creation for self-reliance
Hon. Musoni underscored the role of education in transforming Africa’s future. He called for investment in cognitive capacity—expanding knowledge, critical thinking, and technical expertise among young Africans. “We must not only acquire knowledge,” he said, “but also create it, share it, and use it to solve African problems.”

He further emphasized wealth creation as a critical pillar of economic independence. Drawing attention to the cycle of poverty that has gripped many African societies, he encouraged students to adopt a mindset of productivity, innovation, and sustainability. “Progress must be intentional,” he said. “Just as wealth can be passed down through generations, so must the discipline and commitment required to create it.”

UR Rukara Campus students engage in a spirited debate on Pan-Africanism, presenting opposing and defending views as part of the 62nd African Liberation Day celebrations.

From ideas to action : A continental responsibility
In a strong call to action, Hon. Musoni advised students and staff to move beyond discussion and take responsibility for implementing change. He outlined a practical framework that includes envisioning a better future, committing to it, organizing efforts, taking action, evaluating progress, and celebrating achievements.
“There is no time for blame or despair,” he stressed. “We must organize ourselves—in education, food production, responsible consumption, saving, and investment—and evaluate our impact continuously.”
He encouraged young people to set up platforms where they can organize, engage in dialogue, evaluate initiatives, and disseminate their findings and innovations to wider communities.

A message of encouragement
Concluding his remarks, Hon. Musoni challenged students and staff to take charge of Africa’s future. He urged them to work hard, stay focused, and believe in their collective capacity to transform the continent.
“Africa needs your ideas, your courage, and your commitment,” he said. “Development is not someone else’s responsibility. It starts with you.”

About African Liberation Day (ALD) :
African Liberation Day, observed on May 25 each year, marks the founding of the Organization of African Unity (now the African Union) in 1963. It serves as a reminder of the continent’s collective struggle for independence and the continued pursuit of unity, stability, and sustainable development.

UR Rukara Campus Indashyikirwa Cultural Troupe brought colour and vibrancy to the 62nd African Liberation Day celebration with energetic performances

Story by

NTIRANDEKURA Schadrac
PRO, UR-CE
&
Commissioner for Research & Information,
PAM-RWANDA Chapter, UR Rukara Campus