Eric Kabera : “Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead and build a brighter future for East Africa”

By Eric Kabera*

Dear friends,

I am reaching out to address a pressing issue that has been weighing heavily on my heart and mind lately. The recent events in East Africa, particularly in DRC – and Rwanda with the surrounding regions, have brought to light the urgent need for peace, stability, and development in our beloved continent.

The threat of conflict and violence has loomed over us for far too long, and it is high time that we come together to secure a better future for ourselves and future generations

As a proud East African, I have witnessed firsthand the struggles and challenges that our people face on a daily basis. The threat of conflict and violence has loomed over us for far too long, and it is high time that we come together to secure a better future for ourselves and future generations.

The President of the Republic of Rwanda, Paul Kagame has said it more than a dozens times, we owe to listen to his words of wisdom.

We must look beyond the borders drawn by colonizers and work towards a more united and prosperous East Africa

The recent victory of the AFC/M23 forces near our borders has served as a wake-up call for all of us. It is clear that traditional methods of conflict resolution and peacekeeping are no longer sufficient in addressing the complex challenges we face in the region. We must look beyond the borders drawn by colonizers and work towards a more united and prosperous East Africa.

I, as an artist, filmmaker, and media personality,

I feel compelled to use my platform to advocate for peace, unity, and progress in our region. The stories of displacement, discrimination, and violence that I have witnessed throughout my life have fueled my determination to make a difference and bring about positive change through my medium.

I feel compelled to use my platform to advocate for peace, unity, and progress in our region

I envision a future where East Africans can travel freely, conduct business across borders, and build a thriving community based on mutual respect and cooperation. It is time to set aside our differences and work towards a common goal of peace and development for all.

I urge our leaders and policymakers to prioritize the well-being of our people over military might and conflict. Let us invest in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other essential services that will truly benefit our communities and uplift our societies.

I urge our leaders and policymakers to prioritize the well-being of our people over military might and conflict

Together, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead and build a brighter future for East Africa. Let us stand united in our pursuit of peace, progress, and prosperity for all.

Thank you for your attention and consideration. I look forward to working together towards a better tomorrow.

Warm regards,

*Eric Kabera is a Rwandan filmmaker, founder of the Kwetu Film Institute and the Hillywood-Rwanda Film Festival. He has directed award-winning films such as Africa United, Keepers of Memory, and 100 Days, exploring Rwanda’s history and resilience. Recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the Directors Guild of America, he is a key figure in African cinema.