Rejecting the West’s Influence: Rwanda’s Stand for Sovereignty

This article examines Rwanda’s historical and contemporary relationship with Western powers, focusing on its assertion of sovereignty following colonial influence. It highlights the significant roles of Germany, Belgium, and France while emphasizing the importance of self-reliance and unity among African nations. The piece serves as both a reflection on past atrocities and a call for a collaborative African future free from external dependency.

The phrase “in bed with” another country implies an alliance that primarily benefits one party at the expense of the other. This article explores Rwanda’s experience with Western powers, highlighting how the nation regained its sovereignty and cautioning other African nations against relying on foreign influence, which has often led to destruction rather than stability. Historically, Germany, Belgium, and France have significantly influenced Rwanda’s journey; the first two as colonizers and the latter as an ally of the previous regime.

Currently, Rwanda’s relationships with its former colonizers are strained, as these countries expect continued allegiance. Nevertheless, Rwanda embarked on an independent path, unsettling traditional powers accustomed to influencing its affairs. From the early interactions during King Kigeli IV Rwabugiri’s reign, Rwanda displayed initial resistance to foreign control, evident in subsequent kings who challenged European dominance.

Following the German presence, Belgium invaded Rwanda in 1916 and established a controlling regime. King Yuhi V Musinga resisted this rule but was eventually deposed and exiled by Belgian forces in 1931. Successor King Mutara III Rudahigwa also fought for independence until his mysterious death in 1959. A defining moment for Rwandan sovereignty occurred when King Kigeli V Ndahindurwa defied Belgian authority by taking down their flag during the Congolese independence celebrations, an act that led to his exile.

From 1897 to 1960, four kings ruled Rwanda, each resisting colonial rule while maintaining national unity. In stark contrast, the period of Western-backed governance from 1959 to 1994 saw grievous atrocities. Rwanda’s alignment with Western interests began in 1959, trading autonomy for promises of exclusion, resulting in devastating internal violence. Historian Elizabeth King notes Rwanda’s downfall post-colonization, where previously, the region was deemed exceptionally peaceful.

The consequences of colonialism are evident, especially in neighboring regions under former colonial influence. Since 1994, Rwanda has focused on self-reliance and unity, which has incited the discontent of Germany, Belgium, and France, who struggle to accept Rwanda’s independence. Rwanda’s current trajectory recalls Tanzania’s independence journey under Julius Nyerere, who rejected neocolonial interference and promoted self-sufficiency, leading his nation toward economic leadership.

In a globalized world, nations must perceive their future as rooted in cooperative relationships rather than exploitative ones. African nations should nurture intra-continental partnerships, resist dependency on the West, and simultaneously highlight colonial injustices and practices. Unity and self-determination are imperative for Africa to reclaim its dignity and secure its future, signaling a decisive rejection of subservience to Western influence.

Rwanda’s historical experience underscores the challenges of colonial influence and the importance of asserting sovereignty. By choosing independence and self-reliance over reliance on Western powers, Rwanda has set a precedent for other African nations. The need for intra-African cooperation is vital in confronting colonial legacies and shaping a unified future, ensuring dignity and autonomy for the continent.

Original Source: www.newtimes.co.rw