
On April 7, 2025, President Paul Kagame joined a commemorative event known as the "Walk to Remember." This initiative aimed to honor and reflect on the Rwandans who lost their lives during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. By lighting a flame of hope, President Kagame symbolized the unity and collaboration of Rwandans in the journey toward healing and nation-building.
His message of hope conveyed that those who remain must continue to work towards building a society based on values and reconciliation while remembering their country's history. The event emphasized the commitment to peace and development in Rwanda and expressed gratitude to those who have shown bravery in confronting violence and its consequences.
The walk began at the District offices of Gasabo and was attended by a diverse group of youth, artists, and social media influencers. It highlighted unity and initiatives aimed at overcoming conflict. The event also illustrated that remembrance is not merely about sorrow; it is an opportunity to foster hope and to demonstrate that Rwanda can rebuild and thrive.
President Kagame joined the youth participating in this year’s 31st commemoration event at BK Arena. The ceremony was marked by a focus on history, with the youth showcasing family and community, highlighting messages of reconciliation and the pursuit of peace in the country. President Kagame emphasized the importance of educating young people about the nation’s history and the need to do everything possible to prevent such tragedies from occurring again.
At BK Arena, attendees demonstrated that remembrance serves as a moment to uphold the unity of Rwandans and to continue nurturing love tied to their history. President Kagame stated that remembering requires vigilance and that everyone has a role in ensuring the rights of others and building a better future for the nation.
He went on to outline five key points for the youth during this commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi:
1.Avoid harmful words and divisive actions: He urged the youth to refrain from derogatory language, insults, and manifestations of hatred during this remembrance period, emphasizing the need to embody unity, respect, and dignity.
2.Combat Genocide ideology: He called on the youth as the nation's strength to build a better future by reporting any expressions or behaviors that reflect Genocide ideology.
3.Engage in acts of kindness: He encouraged participation in initiatives that support genocide survivors in need, urging them to provide assistance, whether it be water, food, clothing, livestock, or simple gestures of kindness.
4.Participate in planned commemoration activities: He urged the youth to engage in remembrance activities at their community levels, as outlined in the schedule released by local authorities. Together, they should actively contribute to preserving history and building unity among Rwandans.
5. Know your history: He urged the youth, especially during school holidays, to take the opportunity to learn about their country's history. Parents are encouraged to send their children to discussions and educational events related to history, as part of the "Know Your History" initiative.
At the end of the evening remembrance event at BK Arena, President Kagame lit a flame of hope for all attendees
. He conveyed messages of hope and unity to the Rwandan people, highlighting that remembrance is crucial in the ongoing pursuit of peace and unity. He affirmed that, despite existing challenges, collaboration and reconciliation will guide the nation toward a brighter future. The evening brought together many participants, demonstrating remembrance as a culture of integrity and preservation.
Writen by ; Joyeuse Mukundiyukuri/Realrwanda.rw