The Mayor of Gicumbi District has called on residents to strengthen unity, reject genocide ideology and deepen resilience as Rwanda begins the 32nd commemoration week of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi under the theme “Kwibuka Twiyubaka” .

In a message delivered at the launch of the commemoration week in Rutare Sector, Nzabonimpa Emmanuel expressed gratitude to citizens who gathered to honor the victims, emphasizing that remembrance remains a cornerstone of national identity and collective responsibility.

“Rwanda endured a tragic history rooted in divisionism, discrimination, hatred and ethnic ideology,” he said. “These were fueled by colonial teachings and extremist narratives that ultimately led to the Genocide against the Tutsi.”

Between April and July 1994, more than one million Tutsi were killed in a span of 100 days, in what remains one of the darkest chapters in modern history, carried out while much of the international community stood by.

Addressing residents of Rutare, the mayor warned against the persistence of genocide ideology, noting its historical roots dating back to the late 1950s. He cited discriminatory doctrines, exclusionary policies and the misuse of media and education systems as tools that entrenched division and hatred.

“As we commemorate for the 32nd time, we must reflect on our past and remain vigilant,” he said, stressing the need to educate younger generations on the true history of the genocide and to hold accountable anyone who promotes denial or revisionism.

He further called on parents and guardians to play an active role in shaping values among youth, urging them to reject divisive teachings and instead promote unity, truth and responsibility.

The mayor highlighted Rwanda’s homegrown solutions in addressing the consequences of the genocide, with particular emphasis on the Ndi Umunyarwanda program, which seeks to foster a shared national identity and rebuild trust among citizens.

“This program reminds us of the deep bonds that unite us as Rwandans and encourages us to reject anything that may divide us, as we work together towards sustainable development based on self-reliance and dignity,” he noted.

Nzabonimpa also commended the Government of National Unity for its continued support to genocide survivors and paid tribute to the former Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) for stopping the genocide and restoring peace.

Closing his remarks, he urged young people to take a leading role in preserving the truth about the genocide and confronting those who distort or trivialize it. He also called on all residents of Gicumbi District to remain united in remembrance, reaffirming a collective commitment to ensure that such atrocities never happen again, while continuing to heal and support one another.