Independence was achieved at a time of high tension, following the Rwandan Revolution: centuries of rule by the minority Tutsi group had been overturned in just three years, the majority Hutu taking power in a violent upheaval, and forcing more than 100,000 to seek refuge in neighbouring countries.

Horana Imana, murage mwiza Ibyo tugukesha ntibishyikirwa; Umuco dusangiye uraturanga Ururimi rwacu rukaduhuza Ubwenge, umutima, amaboko yacu Nibigukungahaze bikwiye Nuko utere imbere ubutitsa.

Abakurambere b'intwari Bitanze batizigama Baraguhanga uvamo ubukombe Utsinda ubukoroni na mpatsibihugu Byayogoje Afurika yose None uraganje mu bwigenge Tubukomeyeho uko turi twese.

Komeza imihigo Rwanda dukunda Duhagurukiye kukwitangira Ngo amahoro asabe mu bagutuye Wishyire wizane muri byose Urangwe n'ishyaka, utere imbere Uhamye umubano n'amahanga yose Maze ijabo ryawe riguhe ijambo.

Rwanda, our beautiful and dear country Adorned of hills, lakes and volcanoes Motherland, would be always filled of happiness Us all your children: Abanyarwanda Let us sing your glare and proclaim your high facts You, maternal bosom of us all Would be admired forever, prosperous and cover of praises.

Our valorous ancestors Gave themselves bodies and souls As far as making you a big nation You overcame the colonial-imperialistic yoke That has devastated Africa entirely And has your joy of your sovereign independence Acquired that constantly we will defend.

Maintain this cape, beloved Rwanda, Standing, we commit for you So that peace reigns countrywide That you are free of all hindrance That your determination hires progress That you have excellent relations with all countries And that finally your pride is worth your esteem.