In the Ruhango district, nine students from Cyobe Primary School were honored by the National Police and local authorities for their patriotic act of preventing the national flag from falling during a storm. On October 2, 2024, strong winds tore through the school, damaging the roof and threatening to bring down the flag. The students, fearing that the fall of the flag would symbolize a loss of national dignity, quickly acted to save it.
The students recalled learning about the significance of the flag in Rwanda's history, especially since there was no national flag during the colonial era. After Rwanda gained independence, the flag became a powerful symbol of freedom, and its fall could be seen as a step backward.
Led by fourth-grader Gisubizo Erneste, the group braved the rain and wind to secure the flag. Gisubizo expressed his pride in their actions, saying, “I knew that if the flag fell, it would represent a loss of national pride, so I rushed to hold it up. When it became too heavy for me, my friends came to help until the teacher arrived and we safely lowered it.”
Sixth-grader Akimanimpaye Josianne, who also helped, shared that their actions were a form of sacrifice for the country, encouraging other children to develop a sense of unity and national pride.
Police Commissioner ACP Teddy Ruyenzi praised the students, saying that their efforts to protect a national symbol in the face of danger showed their deep understanding of patriotism. He highlighted that such acts of bravery are typically expected from adults, yet these young students displayed remarkable courage.
The Ruhango District Mayor, Valens Habarurema, emphasized the importance of loving and respecting national symbols, including the flag. He noted that the students' actions were a testament to the spirit of resilience and unity that defines Rwanda. The school’s headmaster, Aron Mugirwanake, expressed pride in the students and their heroic actions.
The local authorities assured that the classrooms damaged by the storm would be repaired within two weeks, allowing the students to resume their lessons.
