Cameroonian community in Rwanda celebrated Unity Day, praise Rwanda for its warm welcome

On May 19, 2024, students at the Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD) and other alumni from Cameroon celebrated their country's Unity Day, expressing gratitude to Rwanda for its warm reception. The celebration took place at ILPD's main campus in Nyanza.

Unity Day has been celebrated in Cameroon since 1972, aiming to unite the French-speaking and English-speaking parts of the country. Since that year, May 20 is considered a significant day in Cameroon, following President Ahmadou Ahidjo's efforts to unify the country. This day replaced the previous Independence Day celebration.

Me Ambassa Noah Etoundi Hilaire, a Cameroonian who arrived in Rwanda in 2021 to pursue further legal studies and is now practicing law there, mentioned that the unity instilled in them by their country helps them remain bonded even when abroad.

He said, "For instance, we played football, and we all see ourselves as children of one Cameroon, and we love each other."

Prof. Guy-Christian Agbor, an American lecturer and legal researcher originally from Cameroon, urged his compatriots to strengthen their unity, which he described as the cornerstone of everything.

He said, "We joined Rwandans in commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi, learning about how division destroyed Rwanda. Therefore, this is a time to honor this Unity Day, truly understand its value, and strive to uphold it."

He also encouraged them to appreciate the warm welcome they received in Rwanda and to foster good relations with the Rwandans they meet.

ILPD's statistics indicate that over 800 Cameroonians have passed through the institution, and they are praised for their good conduct in Rwanda and their interaction with the residents of Nyanza City.

The celebration featured various social activities, including a football match between current Cameroonian students at ILPD and alumni. The student team won with a score of one to zero. The event also included sharing food and drinks.

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