Rwanda has officially begun a week of national mourning, marking the start of the 100-day commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The national event was launched this morning, April 7, at the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi, bringing together senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organizations, and families of victims laid to rest at the site.
Observed globally as the International Day of Reflection on the Genocide against the Tutsi, April 7 commemorates more than one million lives lost during the 100 days of mass killings in 1994.
President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame led the ceremony by lighting the Flame of Hope, which will burn throughout the 100 days of remembrance as a symbol of resilience, unity, and a shared commitment to “Never Again.”
Ahead of the flame-lighting, the Head of State and the First Lady laid wreaths at mass graves and observed a moment of silence in honor of more than 250,000 victims buried at the memorial.
The ceremony drew broad participation from both local and international stakeholders, all underscoring the enduring responsibility of remembrance in preserving historical truth and preventing genocide.
Throughout the week of mourning, Rwanda will host a series of remembrance activities, including public dialogues, survivor testimonies, and community support initiatives. The 100-day commemoration period will continue to serve as a time for reflection, national unity, and renewed commitment to resilience.
