Perhaps the only thing that the average American knows about Rwanda is of the genocide that claimed over a million lives in 1994. When locating Rwanda, a small nation about the size of the state of Maryland, on a map of Africa, most would first notice their looming neighbor to the left, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, from underneath the thick tarnish of genocide and the shadows of deep-seated regional conflict, Rwanda has recreated itself as not only a stable economy in the region, but a leader in education, technology, and health for the African continent. Interning in the Public Diplomacy Office at the U.S. Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda, I have had the chance to celebrate many milestones with Rwanda: April 7th was the 19th anniversary of the beginning of the 100 day genocide. July 1st was Rwanda’s 51st Independence Day, commemorating their independence from Belgium in 1962. 

And in June, Rwanda celebrated with nations around the world for the 10th anniversary of the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Started in 2003 by former President George W. Bush, PEPFAR’s goal is a generation free of AIDS. In Rwanda, PEPFAR has helped 61,900 people receive antiretroviral treatment, 1,552,300 individuals receiving counseling and testing, and has averted 1,452 estimated infant HIV infections. 

Before the genocide, Rwanda had one of the highest rates of HIV/AIDS infection in Africa. The national prevalence rate was almost 18%. The genocide only intensified the situation: thousands of women, victims of sexual violence, were infected during the brief conflict, causing infection rates to spike to almost 27% of the urban population. But by 2010, USAID statistics estimated the prevalence hovered around 3%. 

How did a nation reduce its HIV/AIDS infection rate by 24% in less than fifteen years? By making health a priority, first through receiving foreign aid, and then by creating their own programming and infrastructure to address the issues internally. Through initiatives to increase literacy and access to education, programs to increase financial stability and small business ownership, and development of technology, Rwanda has prioritized social issues as a way to progress the country. And Rwanda’s budget for 2014 includes only several percent of foreign aid.  

July 4th is another celebration in Rwanda—Liberation Day, the day when Kigali was liberated from Hutu rebels, effectively ending the genocide and saving thousands from the fate of the machete. Our own day of independence is July 4th, and we honor our unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. On this holiday, I encourage Americans to think about Rwanda. Think about their impressive strides forward in health, education, and development. As you remember the birth of our nation and our struggle for rights and peace, think about theirs.  

And as you celebrate your own journey through life, and your pursuits of happiness, celebrate for Rwanda too.  

Contact Sarah Geisler here.