The National Flag and the National Anthem

1Monday morning

Every Monday at Keza's school, the whole school gathers in the yard. Two pupils raise the flag while everyone sings. Nobody moves or talks. Keza's little brother, who has just started school, whispers, "Why is everyone standing so still?" Keza whispers back, "Because that is our flag and our anthem. They belong to every Rwandan."

2What is a national symbol?

A national symbol is a sign or an object that stands for a whole country and all its people. Rwanda's Constitution names four national symbols:

1. the national flag
2. the national motto
3. the seal of the Republic (the coat of arms)
4. the national anthem

In this lesson you will learn about the flag and the anthem.

3The national flag

Rwanda's flag has been in use since 2001. It was designed by the Rwandan artist Alphonse Kirimobenecyo.

• The blue band covers the top half. It stands for happiness and peace.
• The yellow band stands for economic development.
• The green band at the bottom stands for hope for prosperity: a good, rich life for all.
• The golden sun in the top right-hand corner has 24 rays. It stands for unity, openness and the enlightenment of the Rwandan people: knowledge that drives away ignorance, like the sun drives away darkness.

4Respecting the flag

• Stand still and quiet when the flag is raised or lowered.
• Never let the flag touch the ground, and never tear, burn or write on it.
• Only use the flag with the right colours and shape.

In times of national mourning, the flag is flown at half-mast, halfway down the pole. For example, it flies at half-mast during the first week of Kwibuka, from 7 to 13 April, when Rwandans remember the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

5The national anthem: "Rwanda Nziza"

Rwanda's national anthem is "Rwanda Nziza", which means "Beautiful Rwanda". It has been the national anthem since 1 January 2002. It was chosen in a national competition: the words were written by Faustin Murigo and the music by Jean-Bosco Hashakaimana.

The anthem has four verses. In simple words, they say:

1. Rwanda is beautiful, with its hills, lakes and volcanoes, and it is like a mother to all Rwandans.
2. Rwandans share one culture and one language that unite them, and they use their minds, hearts and hands to develop their country.
3. Rwanda's brave ancestors gave everything for the country, and Rwanda is free and independent.
4. Rwandans will keep working for peace in the country, for progress, and for good friendship with all nations.

We sing the anthem at school assemblies, national celebrations, sports matches and official ceremonies. When it is sung, stand straight, stay still, and take off your hat.

Try it yourself