Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr Jean Damascène Bizimana, has described individuals who rescued Tutsi during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi as a source of national pride, calling on Rwandans to uphold them as role models in promoting unity and rejecting genocide ideology.
He made the remarks during the 32nd commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi held at Kiziguro Genocide Memorial in Gatsibo District.
Dr Bizimana commended those who risked their lives to save Tutsi during the genocide, stressing that their actions should be preserved as a moral example for future generations.
“Those who rescued Tutsi during the Genocide against the Tutsi are Rwanda’s pride. They should remain our role models, and we must not give space or value to genocide deniers and revisionists,” he said.
He underscored the importance of safeguarding accurate historical memory, noting that it is critical in preventing the recurrence of genocide and strengthening national resilience.
The commemoration event brought together leaders and residents from different parts of Gatsibo District, particularly from the former communes of Murambi, Gituza, and Muhura, where more than 5,000 Tutsi were killed at Kiziguro Catholic Parish and surrounding areas on April 11, 1994.
Survivors from the area testified that the genocide against Tutsi had been systematically prepared long before its execution.
They recalled events dating back to October 1990, when the then burgomaster of Murambi commune, Gatete Jean Baptiste, launched house-to-house searches targeting Tutsi families, accusing them of collaborating with the RPF Inkotanyi. Many men were arrested and detained in Byumba, where some were killed.
Dr Bizimana also urged Rwandans to deepen their understanding of the country’s history, warning that ignorance of history exposes society to manipulation and danger.
“Those who do not know are destroyed by ignorance,” he said, adding that historical awareness remains essential for safeguarding national unity and direction.
He further cautioned against individuals and narratives seeking to revive divisive ideology, calling on citizens to remain vigilant and protect national unity.
Dr Bizimana reaffirmed that the bond between Rwandans and the Inkotanyi who stopped the genocide should continue to serve as a guiding national foundation.
