During the 32nd commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, residents especially adults were urged to tell young people the truth about the country’s history and avoid distorting facts.
The message was delivered on April 12, 2026, at the Zaza Genocide Memorial during a commemoration event held in Zaza Sector, Ngoma District.
Speakers emphasized the importance of teaching accurate history to the younger generation so they can understand the roots and consequences of the genocide.
It was recalled that on April 12, 1994, Tutsis who had sought refuge at Zaza Parish and surrounding buildings were attacked and killed by Interahamwe militias inside the church.
A survivor, Joseline Gasinzigwa, shared testimony highlighting the brutality of the killings in the former Mugesera Commune. She explained that victims were murdered by neighbors who had even prepared lists of those to be killed.
Omar Biseruka, President of IBUKA in Ngoma District, expressed solidarity with genocide survivors and noted that even after 32 years, the journey of healing and rebuilding continues. He urged Rwandans to keep fighting genocide ideology and divisionism.
The Mayor of Ngoma District, Nathalie Niyonagira, stressed that the history of the genocide must continue to be taught, especially to young people, so they fully understand the truth.
“Commemoration is not only about revisiting painful history, but also about ensuring it never happens again. We must continue to promote unity and firmly reject genocide ideology wherever it appears. The youth are the hope of the future and must be equipped with the truth to build a Rwanda free from discrimination and division,” she said.
Mayor Niyonagira also emphasized the need to continue supporting genocide survivors in their recovery journey and praised the bravery of the Rwandan Patriotic Front in stopping the genocide and restoring hope.
The Zaza Genocide Memorial is the final resting place of more than 12,000 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.