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A section of participants during the 31st Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi at UR Rukara Campus.

The University of Rwanda –Rukara Campus held the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, during which IBUKA Rwanda was represented by Dr. Augustin Nshimiyimana, a commissioner from the organization. In his address, he emphasized the importance of remembrance and the collective responsibility to honor the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

In his message, Dr. Nshimiyimana highlighted the significance of the commemoration, stating, "As Rwandans, it is our solemn duty to unite in remembrance as we mark the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, a dark chapter in our history that we must never forget. IBUKA calls upon its members who have lost loved ones to remain strong and to honour their memory through resilience and continued progress,” he stated, underlining the importance of transforming pain into purpose. We thank the Government of the Republic of Rwanda for its efforts towards unity and reconciliation."

He further expressed that remembrance is a cornerstone of Rwanda’s rebuilding efforts, emphasizing, "A society that forgets its past is doomed to repeat it. I once had a vision as a psychologist where I was reminded that we don’t remember just to heal, but to have a clear direction for the future. Remembrance is a responsibility. It is a moment for families and communities to reflect on the positive aspects of their history and ensure that the virtues they cherished are passed on."

Dr. Augustin Nshimiyimana delivering a message on behalf of IBUKA during the 31st Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi at UR Rukara Campus.

The message also stressed the necessity of collective reflection on the painful past, saying, "The 1994 genocide against the Tutsi led to the loss of over a million lives. The scars left by such a tragic event burden us to heal and rebuild Rwanda. At IBUKA, we firmly believe that remembering is essential for our survival and for the continued unity of our people."

Dr. Nshimiyimana also lauded the initiative of the ’Unity and Resilience Club’ introduced by the Ministry of Unity and Civic Education in partnership with IBUKA. "It is commendable that this club encourages students to participate actively. It would be heartening to return and find that all students have embraced this cause," he said. He continued, quoting President Paul Kagame : "We are committed to three things : Unity, Thinking Big and Accountability."

Furthermore, he called on students to distance themselves from genocide ideology, emphasizing that remembrance empowers individuals to move forward, "In remembrance, we draw strength. It allows us to rebuild our lives and honor the memories of those who perished during the genocide. It is essential for us to keep moving forward, and to ensure that we never repeat the mistakes of the past."

Dr. Nshimiyimana also reminded the audience that the lessons learned from genocide testimonies are invaluable, and he urged the students to view these testimonies as sources of profound learning. "The testimonies of survivors offer powerful lessons. We must learn from them and acknowledge the role of each individual in the events of the genocide of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi."

Reflecting on the progress made by the government and the efforts to improve the living conditions of survivors of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, he noted, "We are aware of the difficult living conditions of survivors, but we also recognize the tremendous efforts of the Government of National Unity to improve their lives. We are proud of the achievements made, including providing education to children, building homes for the less fortunate, and providing financial support, such as through FARG (Genocide Survivors Assistance Fund)."

Dr. Nshimiyimana concluded his message with a call to action, urging the students to contribute to a better Rwanda : "As students, you have a crucial role in shaping the future. Continue to distance yourselves from the dark past and focus on building a better tomorrow, free from the scars of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi."

The commemoration at UR Rukara Campus concluded with an expression of gratitude to the institution for its continued efforts to support survivors of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi and for their contributions to the national healing process.

Story by

NTIRANDEKURA Schadrac
PRO, UR-CE