Jeannette Kagame has urged Rwandans to take an active role in upholding and protecting the truth, warning that silence risks allowing it to be distorted by those spreading misinformation.
In a message shared on X, the First Lady emphasized that while truth has the power to overcome falsehood, it requires deliberate effort—particularly from young people—to be defended and amplified.
“Young people should understand that truth does not defend itself. It must be brought to light with wisdom and discernment, especially as those who oppose it constantly seek to mislead,” she said.
She cautioned that individuals who deny or distort facts are increasingly exploiting various platforms to spread false narratives, heightening their impact on society.
Jeannette Kagame stressed that Rwandans must remain vigilant in safeguarding the country’s history and values, calling for stronger efforts to communicate truth clearly and consistently.
She also urged parents to raise a generation equipped with critical thinking skills—capable of questioning, analyzing, and verifying information to distinguish truth from falsehood.
“We must nurture youth who think critically, verify sources, and speak with confidence backed by evidence. We must raise a generation rooted in patriotism,” she said.
The First Lady highlighted the importance of these values during the commemoration period of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, noting that hate speech often resurfaces during this time.
However, she said Rwandans have learned to recognize and confront such narratives.
“When these voices emerge, we recognize them and do not remain silent—we counter them with our truth,” she said.
She concluded by calling on citizens to continue safeguarding peace, strengthening unity, and building a resilient future for generations to come.
