Kwibuka 31: Mount Kigali University honors victims of the genocide against the Tutsi

In a solemn and reflective ceremony, Mount Kigali University joined the nation on May 23 to mark the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, under the national theme: “Remember, Unite, and Renew.” The event brought together students, staff, university leadership, and invited guests to honor the memory of over one million lives lost and reaffirm a national commitment to “Never Again.”

The commemoration began with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi, where members of the university community laid wreaths at the final resting place of more than 250,000 victims. This symbolic act of remembrance served as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of hatred and the strength found in resilience and survival.

Later in the day, a formal event was held at the university’s main hall. In his keynote address, Vice Chancellor Dr. Martin Kimemia emphasized that remembrance is not only about honoring the past but also about building a future free of division and violence.

“Remembering is not just about the past; it is about ensuring such atrocities never happen again in our country,” Dr. Kimemia said.

He underlined the university’s responsibility in promoting ethical leadership, critical thinking, and civic responsibility, and he urged young people to be guardians of peace and truth.

“Universities must be places where history is not only taught but deeply understood. We must all resist genocide ideology, hate speech, and all forms of discrimination,” he added.

Dr. Kimemia also praised the leadership of President Paul Kagame for steering the country toward peace and national unity following the genocide.

The event featured a symbolic candle-lighting ceremony led by the university’s Igitego Family, accompanied by poetry and performances that reinforced the values of unity, hope, and remembrance. A moving sketch performed by students depicted Rwanda’s unity before colonial rule, the destructive impact of divisionism, and the country’s ongoing journey of healing.

Ibuka’s Kicukiro District President, Kabandana Felix, commended the university for its role in shaping a new generation grounded in reconciliation and unity.

“We thank the university for instilling these values in the young generation. Kwibuka is a time to support survivors and restore the dignity that was taken from the victims,” he said.

He also urged participants to replace hatred with love and to honor the sacrifice of those who halted the genocide.

Music added emotional weight to the event, including a performance by Munyanshoza Dieudonné, whose song highlighted Rwanda’s journey of resilience and restoration. Survivor Claudine Umutoni gave a heartfelt testimony, recounting how she lost her entire family at the age of ten. Her story deeply moved the audience and reminded everyone of the human cost of hatred.

Division Manager for Corporate Services in Kicukiro District, Murenzi Donatien, reminded attendees that commemoration is not about holding onto bitterness but learning and taking responsibility for the future.

“Kwibuka isn’t about keeping a grudge; it’s about learning from our past and taking the right precautions. The existence of institutions like Mount Kigali University is proof of the brighter future we are building together,” he said.

Ntamvutsa Chelsea, President of the university’s Igitego Family, spoke passionately about the responsibility of the youth.

“Kwibuka is not only a moment of sorrow but a call to action. We must carry the torch of remembrance and be the generation that chooses peace, truth, and unity over hatred and division.”