This webinar celebrates Ingabire Day 2024, a day dedicated to recognising the resilience, courage and hope of Ms. Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza along with other peacemakers who have faced extraordinary challenges in Rwanda. I would be pleased if you could join us for this inspiring conversation with Ms. Umuhoza where we will explore opportunities for healing, growth and development in Rwanda.
Ms. Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza: In 2010, Victoire returned to Rwanda to contribute to nation-building, but her journey took a different path. Victoire was arrested and subjected to a politically motivated judicial process, resulting in a 15-year prison sentence. In 2017, the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights overturned her conviction, citing violations of her freedom of expression and right to adequate defence. Despite the court’s ruling, the Rwandan government has not acknowledged it. After spending eight years in prison, including five years in solitary confinement, Ms. Ingabire Umuhoza was released under presidential pardon in 2018. Victoire has emerged as a symbol of perseverance and strength. Her story is a testament to the power of human resilience, forgiveness and triumph of hope over fear.
