Evra made the remarks on September 4, 2026, during the 21st edition of Kwita Izina, held in Musanze District. A total of 22 baby mountain gorillas are being given names during this year’s ceremony.
Speaking at the event, Evra said he had enjoyed Rwanda since arriving in the country, particularly because of its remarkable recovery from the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
“I am happy that I finally made it to Rwanda, as I had promised the President of Rwanda six years ago. It was a good start because I first went to the Genocide Memorial. It was very emotional, but it was important because wherever I go, I want to learn about the history and culture of the place, as what we see in pictures can sometimes be different from reality,” he said.
Evra said his visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial left a lasting impression on him and made him admire the strength and resilience of Rwandans.
“At the Genocide Memorial, I was touched by what I saw. I feel proud of Rwandans because I don’t know if I will meet other people in the world with such strength to forgive,” he said.
The former France international also described his visit to see mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park as one of the experiences he would never forget.
“Yesterday I went to see the gorillas because I never thought that in my lifetime I would see gorillas in their natural habitat. I had an amazing experience. Every day I spend here, my love for Rwanda keeps growing. I am happy because my dream has come true. It is amazing. I feel blessed and I love Rwanda,” Evra said.
He added that he would support initiatives aimed at bringing happiness and positive change to Rwanda.
Evra, who has Senegalese roots, also praised Rwanda for its cleanliness, saying that among the African countries he has visited, Rwanda stood out as the cleanest.
The former left-back enjoyed a distinguished football career, playing for several top European clubs, including Manchester United in England, where he served as captain, Marseille in France and Juventus in Italy.
He also represented and captained the French national team.
Evra won five English Premier League titles with Manchester United and lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy with the club in 2008. He made 81 appearances for France during his international career.
