Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr. Bizimana Jean Damascène, has urged Rwandans to deepen their understanding of the ideology of hatred and divisionism that led to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, saying it remains essential in preventing the recurrence of such atrocities.
He made the remarks during the 32nd commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi held in Busasamana Sector, Nyanza District, on Sunday, June 21, 2026.
The commemoration also featured the dignified burial of 43 victims of the Genocide.
Dr. Bizimana said understanding the origins, drivers, and consequences of genocide ideology is critical in safeguarding national unity and protecting the country’s progress.
He emphasized that Rwanda’s current leadership has prioritized unity and inclusive development, contrasting it with previous regimes he said were marked by division and hatred that culminated in the Genocide against the Tutsi.
He called on citizens to protect and support the country’s leadership, saying it continues to provide direction and stability for national development.
Dr. Bizimana also reflected on the dignified burial of genocide victims, noting that perpetrators never imagined a time when victims would be respectfully laid to rest and their memory honored.
He extended condolences to genocide survivors and reaffirmed government support, assuring them of continued solidarity and care.
He concluded by encouraging survivors to remain strong, reiterating national unity with the message: “We are together, and it will never happen again.”
