The Pan African Movement (PAM), Rwanda Chapter, officially inaugurated its branch at the Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD), accompanied by the election of its leadership committee within the institution.

The launch ceremony was held on 4^th December 2025, under the leadership of Dr. Alphonse Mulefu, the PAM Commissioner in charge of Higher Learning Institutions and Universities. The event concluded with the election of a committee that will represent PAM at ILPD.

In his keynote address to the ILPD community, Dr. Mulefu revisited the painful legacy of colonialism in Africa, noting that its effects inflicted deep wounds that will require many years to overcome. He highlighted how colonialism eroded African identity and self-worth, establishing foreign standards as ideal and diminishing African capability and dignity.

He cited examples of contemporary attitudes influenced by colonial ideology, emphasizing that some Africans perceive prosperity and fulfilment in terms of Western lifestyles and destinations, often equating European traits with success. He described this as an unhealthy psychological residue of colonialism.

Dr. Mulefu acknowledged the contributions of African heroes who fought for independence and subsequently founded PAM to promote African dignity and values. He stated that the organization's continued existence reflects the need to sustain this legacy and advance the unfinished movement toward African self-reliance.

He further explained that PAM’s central aim is to provide an inclusive platform for Africans to collectively discuss and address continental challenges such as security, development, and dignity. He stressed the significance of prioritizing local solutions, noting that sustainable development is best achieved through initiatives sourced internally rather than externally.

“This objective is embedded in the PAM Vision 2063,” he said. “As members, our duty is to amplify this vision and advocate for its implementation through existing governance systems.”

Members of the ILPD community expressed appreciation for PAM’s mission and pledged their commitment toward strengthening its presence at the institution.

ILPD student Emmy Ngoga commended the initiative and highlighted the progress Rwanda has already made through home-grown solutions such as Gacaca courts, the Ndi Umunyarwanda programme, and other nation-building efforts. He expressed optimism that PAM will realize its goals if young people continue to preserve and advance its ideals.

Similarly, ILPD lecturer Me Rosette Umutoniwase equally underscored the importance of Africans fostering self-driven solutions, advocating for justice, and prioritizing collective wellbeing at both national and continental levels.

During the ceremony, a new committee was elected to lead PAM at ILPD. The leadership team comprises:

• President: Bangayandusha Viateur

• Vice President: Kandera Rosette

• Secretary: Niyigena Samson

Other commissioners are expected to be elected at a later stage.

Dr. Yves Sezirahiga, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs and Research, congratulated the elected committee and urged them to uphold the values of patriotism, integrity, and leadership. He emphasized that the committee must lead by example and serve as a model for staff, students, and the broader ILPD community.

He further advised them to remain cognizant of their mandate, noting, “There are individuals who will look to you for ideological guidance within the framework of PAM. Your leadership will contribute to shaping the Rwanda and Africa that we collectively aspire to build.”

Since its establishment in Rwanda in 2015, the Pan African Movement has successfully expanded its structures nationwide, extending to villages and diverse institutions across the country.