Donatille Nyiramakuba, one of the Intwaza, spoke on behalf of her peers, drawing from a verse in the Bible (for those who believe) from the book of Ecclesiastes. She told participants that a person who helps the vulnerable, who cares for someone without support, is far greater than one who simply helps another. She added:
“Ecclesiastes puts it well: Better to go to a house of mourning than to a house of feasting, for a sorrowful heart provokes reflection.”
She went on to thank the leadership for their continued support and kindness, offering them blessings.
She added:
“When someone faces difficulties, it makes them reflect on the past, but when challenges are few, one tends to overlook them and focus on moving forward without losing hope. We are truly grateful for the way you stand by us, the comfort you give us, and the joy you bring to our hearts. We pray that this compassion may remain with you always and never be separated from the love of God.”
Nyiramakuba also expressed deep gratitude to the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, for restoring their dignity and giving them a new identity. She said:
“Now, no one can look down on us or abandon us. Instead, we take pride in the new name you gave us. They used to call us ‘Inyange’ (the bereft), but you renamed us ‘Intwaza’ (pillars of strength). We are grateful to the Government that never abandons us, from the highest level of leadership down to the village level.”
She called upon Kamonyi District authorities to reach out to elderly Intwaza who are still living in isolated homes across different sectors, urging that they be supported to join others in the Mpinganzima houses, where they can receive proper care and live in dignity.
Explaining why some elders hesitate to join the community homes, she noted:
“Some people suffered trauma that affected their memory and judgment. At their old age, it is difficult for them to understand when you ask them to leave their homes and live with others. But I believe your advice, patience, and efforts will eventually help them accept and join the Mpinganzima homes, where they will receive the daily care and attention they deserve.”
Munyankumburwa Jean Marie, head of the Private Sector Federation (PSF) in Kamonyi District, told intyoza.com that the idea of bringing Intwaza together to celebrate Umuganura came during the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
He explained:
“After the commemoration, we shared a meal together and noticed how joyful they were. We realized it was important to meet with them not only during mourning periods but also during times of celebration and fellowship. That’s how the idea of celebrating Umuganura with them was born.”
He added that the initiative brought happiness and excitement, noting it would continue because the elders need companionship, joy, and support to enjoy life.
Immaculée Kayitesi, representing AVEGA and PSF at the Southern Province level, also addressed the gathering. She encouraged Intwaza and others present to continue thanking President Kagame, who always puts the welfare of citizens first. She commended Kamonyi District for its unique commitment to supporting these parents and praised the PSF for consistently standing by the Intwaza.
In her words:
“Dear parents, brothers, and sisters—you carried a heavy burden, and you showed resilience. We thank you for not being crushed by history but instead standing strong to help rebuild our country. You preserved our nation’s story so that the younger generation may learn and ensure such tragedies never happen again.”
She also appealed to the district leaders to respond to the voices of Intwaza, especially those too old to care for themselves, and to encourage them to move into Mpinganzima homes where they can receive daily care and medical attention.
Dr. Nahayo Sylvere, Mayor of Kamonyi District, thanked the PSF for the idea and initiative, which was successfully implemented with the district’s support. He expressed gratitude for their partnership in fostering development and improving citizens’ lives.
He said:
“When we come together in an event like this with our parents, the Intwaza, it is a moment to celebrate, to remind you that we are with you, that we love you—as you already know—and to assure you that you have a country that cares for you, that values you, and that works tirelessly to ensure your wellbeing.”
He urged them to keep President Kagame in their prayers, recognizing his unwavering efforts to improve their lives. He emphasized that the gathering was meant for fellowship, joy, and togetherness, allowing them to reconnect, celebrate, and reflect on their journey of resilience and nation-building.
In Kamonyi District, there are 63 Intwaza: 43 live in different sectors of the district, 9 reside in the Mpinganzima home in Bugesera, 6 in the Nyanza home, and 5 in the Huye home. For those living in the community, local schools—through students, staff, and administrators—regularly visit them under a program called Marrainage, offering companionship, assistance, and support to ensure they live dignified lives.
