Nkurunziza, a veteran of the RPA 600, recounts the origins of "Maji Maji," the anthem birthed from Rwanda’s liberation struggle and effort to stop the genocide against the Tutsi. With plans to perform at the "Urw’intwari" concert in Kigali in July 2025, Nkurunziza’s lifelong dedication continues to inspire generations.
Nkurunziza, one of the RPA 600 soldiers based in the Conseil National pour le Développement (CND) building, explained that the captivating song "Maji Maji" was composed under profound emotional influence during Rwanda’s liberation war and the mission to end the Genocide against the Tutsi.
A Song Rooted in Rwanda’s Liberation Victory
In an exclusive interview with InyaRwanda on June 25, 2025, at the Museum of the Liberation Struggle, Nkurunziza spoke with pride about the song's conception on April 16, 1994, while positioned on Rebero Hill, marking the turn toward victory in the liberation struggle.
He shared, "I envisioned this song amidst combat. When troops reached us near the RDB at around 3:30 PM, I captured the essence of their arrival and, during our tactical reorganization, I foresaw the image of triumph for the country."
Though he couldn't write the song immediately, the idea lingered with him. Later, while recuperating in Rutongo after being injured, he recorded the lyrics on a paper bearing his nickname, “Maji Maji.”
The Meaning Behind ‘Maji Maji’
Nkurunziza explained, "'Maji Maji' symbolizes a mobile weapon—a force you can carry effortlessly. The song represents a monumental banner of victory, narrating the pivotal final steps of Rwanda’s liberation."
He further elaborated that the "122 gun" mentioned in the lyrics symbolizes a military weapon capable of firing up to 3 kilometers, contrasting with typical close-range weapons, emphasizing the decisive and impactful stages of the liberation battle.
The Journey of ‘Maji Maji’ from Combat to the Nation
In 1995, while stationed at Mukamira, Nkurunziza began teaching the song to fellow soldiers, and it soon became a shared anthem. Professionally recorded in 2003, "Maji Maji" publicly debuted as a powerful cultural symbol. Today, this historic song is a staple during national liberation celebrations, preserving Rwanda’s legacy.
A Moment of Pride in Performing for "Future Generations"
Nkurunziza, a seasoned artist with 31 years in music, is preparing to headline the "Urw’intwari" concert at Kigali Convention Center on July 3, 2025, alongside other prominent groups like Itorero Inyamibwa and Itorero Ishyaka ry’Intore.
Excited for the upcoming event, he revealed, "Performing alongside the younger generation at the 'Urw’intwari' concert instills deep pride. I contributed to liberating my nation, and now I commit myself to nurturing its growth."
Reflecting on his survival, Nkurunziza added, "I owe thanks to God because I was part of the RPA 600 unit, and today, I witness my nation’s remarkable progress."
Experiences Across Different Fronts
Nkurunziza recounted his arrival at CND on December 28, 1993, and his involvement in the liberation battle until April 17, 1994. Later deployed to Gisenyi, he faced challenging engagements that lasted until Rwanda’s liberation was secured.
Summarizing Rwanda’s 31 years post-liberation, he celebrated progress but acknowledged lingering concerns, expressing, "Seeing buildings as memorials of those who sacrificed brings great joy, but setbacks like arrests for drug use are disheartening; they counter our hard-won progress."
After retiring from military service in June 2016, Nkurunziza immersed himself in songwriting, describing "Maji Maji" as a reflection of his life and Rwanda’s historical journey. While the liberation battle has ended, his mission of passing on Rwanda’s heritage through songs continues undeterred.
Nkurunziza revealed the roots of "Maji Maji" stemmed from the strength troops displayed during the CND battle, motivating his vision of victory.
He detailed how the song evolved—originally conceived at CND and mastered at Mukamira—culminating in its 2003 release.
WATCH: Nkurunziza’s Inspirational Song ‘Maji Maji’