On Monday, February 2, 2026, the Rwamagana residents embarked on the tour, coinciding with Rwanda’s Heroes’ Day (celebrated annually on January 1), to honor the men and women who gave their lives to free Rwandans from oppressive leadership, injustice, and the targeted violence against Tutsi citizens.
The group included local leaders, teachers, elders, and youth students. Upon reaching the Kagitumba border, they were welcomed by a historian who explained the importance of the liberation struggle sites.
The tour included three major stops:
Kagitumba Border: The site where the first shot of the liberation struggle was fired on October 1, 1990, after RPA troops, under the orders of Major General Fred Gisa Rwigema, initiated operations.
Nyabwishongezi Hill: Where Major General Fred Rwigema was shot and killed during the struggle.
Gikoba, Tabagwe Sector: The location known as “Agasantimetero”, the first piece of land captured by RPA forces.
The tour also included a visit to the first military base of RPA Commander-in-Chief, Major General Paul Kagame, which was constructed while RPA troops were strategizing to reform their combat approach.
Mukashyaka Chantal, Executive Secretary of Rubona Sector, noted that understanding the history of Rwanda’s liberation struggle helps citizens deepen their patriotism and train future generations to value the country.
Kanyana Mutoni Nikta, a 17-year-old student at Agahozo Shalom Youth Village, said that the courage and heroism demonstrated by RPA soldiers inspired him to contribute positively to the nation, emphasizing that the youth now have the resources and opportunities to continue building Rwanda.
Mutsinzi Theophile, a Rubona resident, stated that learning history at its actual sites encourages citizens to motivate friends and neighbors to actively preserve the nation’s achievements.
The tour was organized by Oldfox Tours and Travel, a Rwandan company, in partnership with Rubona Sector. Oldfox is known for conducting educational and cultural tours, including Christian-themed trips to Israel, Egypt, Turkey, and sites within Rwanda, with a focus on helping participants understand historical contexts.
Uwera Winnie, CEO of Oldfox, highlighted that knowing Rwanda’s history, especially the heroism of those who fought for liberation, inspires citizens to work diligently, remain resilient, and safeguard the country’s achievements.
She added that Oldfox plans to organize more tours for youth, private sector employees, NGOs, and government agencies to help participants understand Rwanda’s past and future direction.
Over 300 residents from Rubona Sector, Rwamagana, visited Nyagatare sites preserving Rwanda’s liberation history
Participants were educated on Rwanda’s liberation struggle through an immersive historical tour in Nyagatare
Uwera Winnie pledged to organize more tours for youth, civil society, and government bodies to deepen understanding of Rwanda’s history and direction
Learning about Rwanda’s liberation heroes inspires citizens to remain committed, resilient, and protect the country’s achievements – Uwera Winnie
Oldfox Tours regularly organizes cultural and Christian-themed tours to Israel, Egypt, Turkey, and Rwanda [including Kibeho]
Uwera Winnie of Oldfox, together with Dr. Ron Adam, former Ambassador of Israel to Rwanda