Jeannette Kagame attended an International Conference on Genocide Prevention that brought together leaders, diplomats, researchers, and youth representatives.
The conference took place on April 8, 2026, at Intare Conference Arena in Rusororo, Gasabo District.
Jean Damascène Bizimana, Rwanda’s Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, highlighted the unique nature of the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, noting that the first woman ever convicted of genocide was Pauline Nyiramasuhuko, a former Minister of Family and Women’s Affairs.
He criticized African countries for failing to prosecute genocide suspects residing within their borders, despite numerous international arrest warrants issued by Rwanda.
“Even after 32 years, not a single African country has tried a genocide suspect on its soil,” he said.
Bizimana also drew comparisons between global responses to Nazism and current regional dynamics, condemning collaboration with the FDLR, which he described as a group promoting genocidal ideology.
Chaloka Beyani, the United Nations Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, stated that the international community failed Rwanda in 1994 despite having clear information about the ongoing killings.
“In 1994, the international community abandoned Rwanda. There was enough evidence and information that could have stopped the genocide,” he said.
He emphasized the need to hold perpetrators accountable and to strengthen efforts to combat hate speech, genocide denial, and divisionism.
Dani Dayan, head of Yad Vashem, stressed that genocide leaves lasting wounds but also a responsibility to remember and prevent its recurrence.
“Remembrance must go hand in hand with the responsibility to protect life, fight hatred, and act before it is too late,” he said.
The conference also featured discussions from various experts, including former UN peacekeeper Boubacar Faye, French researcher Bruno Boudiguet, writer David Gakunzi, and legal expert Innocent Nteziryayo, who addressed the spread of genocide ideology in the region.
A second panel focused on survival, resilience, and hope after genocide. Speakers included Eric Murangwa Eugène, founder of Ishami Foundation, Damas Dukunde of King Faisal Hospital, James Smith, founder of Aegis Trust, and Jeanne Allaire Kayigirwa, co-founder of IBUKA France.
They emphasized the importance of preserving survivor testimonies, strengthening education about genocide, and ensuring justice for perpetrators.
The conference delivered a strong message calling for continued global cooperation to prevent genocide, support survivors, and build a future rooted in peace, justice, and unity.
