RWANDANS IN KENYA MARK THE 27TH COMMEMORATION OF THE 1994 GENOCIDE AGAINST THE TUTSI IN RWANDA

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On 15th April, 2021, Rwanda High Commission in collaboration with the United Nations office at Nairobi in Kenya marked the 27th commemoration of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

The event was held virtually and attended by members of the diplomatic corps, Government of Kenya, friends of Rwanda and Rwandans living and working in Kenya including the University students.

Mrs. Zainabu Hawa Bangura, Director General, UNON, Hon. Ababu Namwamba, Chief Administrative Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Kenya graced the commemoration event among other dignitaries and kicked off with the lighting of candles to signify ‘light of hope’ as Rwandans remember the victims of an inglorious episode in its history.

This year’s commemoration was attended by over 180 people and on other social media platforms so as to adhere to the Covid-19 protocols.

During the commemoration, speakers made remarks on the significance of the day and congratulating Rwandans for moving past the genocide episode and rebuilding the country to one of the most progressive countries in Africa.

“Rwanda experienced one of the most painful chapters in modern human history, but its people have rebuilt from the ashes…The people of Rwanda have shown us the power of justice and reconciliation and the possibility of progress. On this solemn day, let us all commit to building a wall guarded by human right and dignity for all.” said Mrs. Zainabu Hawa Bangura.

The Chief Guest, Hon. Ababu Namwamba in his remarks acknowledged that Rwanda has made tremendous steps towards reconciliation and healing. He continued by saying that the country has risen from the ashes like a phoenix to be a formidable country member of the community of the nations of the world. “Rwanda is now moving to becoming the Silicon Valley of Africa thanks to the resilience, dedication and determination of his people not to be bowed or let the past define their future progression. I take cognisance with appreciation the long standing friendly historical relations and high value cooperation between Kenya and Rwanda at the bilateral and multilateral levels. Indeed, this partnership has brought about substantial benefits to our two countries, our peoples and our nations.” Said the Chief Administrative Secretary.

In his remarks, Dr Richard Masozera the High Commissioner emphasized the significance of the commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, informing participants to keep focused on the goal of national unity and reconciliation, peaceful coexistence and to collectively declare NEVER AGAIN!

“Even as we remember those who lost their lives, it is important we also pay tribute to those selfless heroes who resisted by risking their lives in order to help or even save those being targeted.” said Dr Richard Masozera.

On this sombre commemoration, Rwandans in Kenya took this time to reflect on the more than 1 million people murdered in less than 100 days of terror in Rwanda in 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and grieve for the innocent lives lost and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the families who will forever cherish them and the survivors who suffer as both victims and witnesses to one of the darkest chapters in human history.

“H.E President Uhuru Kenyatta in his message to the people of Rwanda during the 25^th Commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi to the people of Rwanda in 2019 said and I would like to repeat, ‘We are not fooled for one instant, free speech is not hate speech. Denial of the 1994 Genocide is not an exercise in academic freedom or democratic politics, it is a clock for murderers who into this day believe their genocidal work is incomplete’ I am writing this quote because it was a very profound message and its relevance should never be lost to the world.”

“Rwanda as a country under the leadership of H.E President Paul Kagame will continue to fight genocide ideology for as long and with whatever it takes. The Government and people of Rwanda will continue to strive for a country where each and every one is valued.” Dr Richard Masozera concluded.