Rwanda’s Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr Jean-Damascène Bizimana, has paid tribute to veteran singer Suzana Nyiranyamibwa, highlighting her contribution to Rwandan music and her role in comforting survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Nyiranyamibwa died on the morning of October 16, 2026. She was known for traditional Rwandan music and songs reflecting the country’s history, unity and patriotism.
Her music included songs that encouraged fighters of the former Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) during the struggle to liberate the country, as well as compositions that promoted reconciliation and offered comfort to survivors of the Genocide against the Tutsi.
In his tribute, Bizimana recalled that Nyiranyamibwa travelled to different parts of Rwanda during the annual commemoration period after the Genocide, singing to comfort people grieving the loss of their loved ones.
He said her music helped survivors cope with grief and encouraged Rwandans to continue rebuilding their lives despite the atrocities they had experienced.
Among the songs he highlighted was one carrying the message, “Let us not despair; let us overcome our sorrow,” which he cited as an example of how her music sought to offer encouragement to people struggling with painful memories.
Bizimana also noted that Nyiranyamibwa frequently encouraged Rwandans to love their country and contribute to its development.
“The legacy you leave us of loving one another and loving Rwanda above all else will always remain in our hearts,” he said, wishing her eternal rest.
Nyiranyamibwa’s music remains familiar to many Rwandans, particularly during the annual commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Some of her well-known songs include Telefoni ko ititaba, Nimuberwe bakobwa, Ese mbaze nde, Ndavunyisha, Ibuka, Gira ubuntu, Amahoro and Turaje Rwanda.
