Residents of Kigarama Sector, together with officials from Kicukiro District, gathered to commemorate the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi for the 32nd time under the theme “Remember, Unite, Renew.”
During the event, retired Lieutenant Colonel Nyirimanzi Gerard, who delivered the main discourse, reminded attendees that commemoration is a shared responsibility for all Rwandans in the journey of rebuilding the nation and fighting against genocide ideology.
“Rebuilding ourselves is our responsibility as Rwandans. Remembrance goes hand in hand with fighting genocide ideology, which was introduced by colonizers and destroyed the unity of Rwandans. This ideology was not part of our culture,” he said.
He added that it is unfortunate that such divisive ideas were once accepted, noting that they were rooted in the colonial strategy of “divide and rule.”
Nyirimanzi also highlighted the progress Rwanda has made in fostering unity, citing that it has reached 95 percent, according to MINUBUMWE. “As Rwandans, we must continue to fight discrimination. While we are pleased with the level of unity achieved, we must remain vigilant against those who still hold genocide ideology,” he emphasized.
Dieudonne Mugabukuze, a survivor, shared his testimony, recounting the discrimination he faced before the Genocide, especially during his school years when he was repeatedly asked to identify his ethnicity. He also described the tragic loss of his family during the Genocide, which later motivated him to join the RPF Inkotanyi.
He expressed gratitude to those who risked their lives to save others.
“I thank all those who hid people during the Genocide, including Omar, the former Imam of Miduha Mosque. May God bless them. I also thank those who refused to participate in the killings, and the RPF Inkotanyi, especially His Excellency the President of the Republic of Rwanda, who led the efforts to stop the genocide,” he said.
Monique Huss, the Deputy Executive Administrator of Kicukiro District, encouraged residents to continue embracing resilience and unity while supporting genocide survivors.
“We thank the survivors for their strength and courage to rebuild their lives. As Rwandans, we have the responsibility to protect the history we have rebuilt after the Genocide. This is the time to commit ourselves to safeguarding our achievements and promoting peace and development,” she said.
She concluded by urging the youth to take ownership of the country’s future. “All the progress we have made belongs to you. Embrace it, protect it, and stand firm against anything that may lead you into dangerous paths,” she advised.
