31st Commemoration of the Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda
Kwibuka 31 – Remember. Unite. Renew
31st Commemoration of the Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda
Never Again
Rasheed Ahmad Chughtai
Introduction
April 2025 marks the 31st anniversary of one of the most horrific tragedies in recent human history: the Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda. Over the course of just 100 days in 1994, more than **800,000 innocent men, women, and children—primarily from the Tutsi community—were systematically slaughtered** in an unspeakable campaign of hatred, extremism, and violence. The world watched, and largely remained silent, as neighbors turned on neighbors and the human spirit was tested to its breaking point. This year’s commemoration, held under the theme “Remember-Unite-Renew,” served as a powerful reminder of Rwanda’s resilience, unity, and remarkable progress in rebuilding a nation once torn apart by hatred.
The annual commemoration, known as Kwibuka —which means “to remember” in Kinyarwanda—is more than a remembrance of the past; it is a call to the global conscience. It is a time to honor the victims, to support the survivors, and to reflect on the dangers of ethnic hatred, propaganda, and division. It is also a moment to recommit ourselves to ensuring that “**never again” is not just a slogan, but a guiding principle for all humanity.
Historical Context: The 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi
The genocide was orchestrated by extremist Hutu leaders following the assassination of President Juvénal Habyarimana on April 6, 1994. What followed was a meticulously planned massacre targeting the Tutsi minority and moderate Hutus who opposed the killings. The international community largely failed to intervene, leaving Rwanda to endure unimaginable suffering.
For three months, mass killings, rape, and destruction were carried out with horrifying efficiency. Families were torn apart, communities were decimated, and the nation was left in ruins. The genocide only ended when the **Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF)**, led by now-President Paul Kagame, liberated the country in July 1994.
Significance of the 31st Commemoration
The 31st commemoration was not only a time to remember the victims but also to reflect on Rwanda’s extraordinary journey of healing, justice, and reconciliation.
Lessons for the World
The genocide in Rwanda was not a spontaneous eruption of violence; it was **planned, fueled by hate media, and executed with terrifying efficiency. It reminds us how hate speech, propaganda, and dehumanization—especially when left unchecked—can lead to unspeakable crimes. It teaches the international community the high cost of indifference, inaction, and the failure to intervene.
A Story of Resilience and Rebuilding
In the three decades since the genocide, Rwanda has shown the world what resilience, reconciliation, and reconstruction can look like. Under the leadership of its people, Rwanda has prioritized unity, justice, and peace building. Institutions like the Gacaca courts and the **National Unity and Reconciliation Commission have helped the country heal wounds that once seemed irreparable.
Rwanda has emerged as a leader in women’s empowerment, environmental sustainability, and post-conflict recovery—proof that even after the darkest of times, nations can rise.
Global Responsibility
This commemoration also places a moral responsibility on governments, civil society, and individuals around the world**. In an age where ethnic violence, extremism, and digital misinformation continue to threaten peace in many parts of the world, we must stay vigilant. The memory of Rwanda must inspire **early action, international solidarity, and unwavering commitment to human rights and justice.
Role of Youth in Preserving Memory
– Given that more than 60% of Rwanda’s population was born after the genocide, education and storytelling are crucial in preventing denial and distortion of history.
– Schools and youth organizations held discussions on the dangers of division and the importance of unity.
Justice and Reconciliation Efforts
– Rwanda’s Gacaca courts, a traditional community-based justice system, tried over 1.2 million cases, helping to foster accountability and reconciliation.
– The government continues to combat genocide ideology and promote national unity through policies like Ndi Umunyarwanda
(“I am Rwandan”).
International Recognition and Solidarity
– The UN and other global bodies reaffirmed their commitment to preventing genocide worldwide.
– Several countries, including the **U.S., France, and Belgium**, issued statements acknowledging their historical failures and honoring Rwanda’s resilience.
Rwanda’s Remarkable Transformation
Since 1994, Rwanda has undergone a **phenomenal rebirth, becoming a model of peace, development, and innovation:
– Economic Growth: Rwanda’s GDP has grown steadily, with advancements in technology, tourism (e.g., gorilla trekking), and infrastructure.
– Gender Equality: Rwanda leads globally in **women’s representation in parliament (over 60%).
– **Social Cohesion**: The government promotes **national identity over ethnic divisions**, fostering a sense of shared destiny.
The Way Forward: “Never Again”
The 31st commemoration reinforced Rwanda’s commitment to ensuring that such atrocities never happen again—in Rwanda or anywhere else. The nation’s journey from darkness to hope serves as an inspiration to the world.
As President Kagame stated:
“We remember our loved ones, not with despair, but with the determination to build a future they would be proud of.”
Conclusion
The 31st commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi was a profound moment of **remembrance, unity, and renewal. Rwanda’s story is one of **tragedy, but also triumph—a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit. As the world reflects on this dark chapter, Rwanda stands as a beacon of hope, progress, and unwavering strength. As we mark the 31st Commemoration of the Genocide Against the Tutsi, let us remember the victims with dignity, support the survivors with compassion, and work together to build a world free from hate and violence. Let Rwanda’s story be a reminder of both the depths of human cruelty and the heights of human strength and reconciliation.
Kwibuka 31 – Remember. Unite. Renew
