By Mr. Grace Mugabe/ Researcher, University Lecturer, and Regional Communications Scientist
Kigali, Rwanda – April 4, 2025 – As Rwanda entered the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, over fifty participants from across the nation gathered at Centre Christus Urumuli for a transformative one-day workshop organized by the Global Initiative for Environment and Reconciliation (GER-Rwanda). The event, themed “Remembering the Past, Forging the Future,” brought together local leaders, security organs, religious figures, youth, genocide survivors, and even former perpetrators, all united in their commitment to healing and reconciliation.
A Call for Unity in Difficult Times
Participants of GER-Rwanda pose for a group photo during the workshop at Centre Christus Urumuli
Mr. Musore Innocent, Executive Director of GER-Rwanda, set the tone with a stirring appeal for solidarity. “This is a time for us, as Rwandans, to stand together. The Ndi Umunyarwanda initiative reminds us that we are one people, and we must work for the good of our nation,” he declared.
His speech resonated deeply, particularly as he drew parallels between Rwanda’s history and the ongoing turmoil in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo. “What is happening in the DRC echoes the horrors of 1994. We must stand up and fight against genocide ideology wherever it exists,” he urged, calling on religious and civil society leaders across the region to champion peace.
Mr. Musore Innocent addresses participants during the GER-Rwanda workshop
Reflections on Progress and Challenges
Rtd. Col. Gerald, a peace researcher, warned against complacency. “The genocide ideology still lingers, and our laws will catch up with those who harbor it,” he stated firmly. He praised Rwanda’s preparedness to prevent history from repeating itself, urging vigilance during the commemoration period.
Madam Josephine Murebwayire, a National Unity Champion, highlighted GER-Rwanda’s pivotal role in community healing. “GER has walked alongside the government, mending wounds and fostering unity,” she said, encouraging participants to spread love and forgiveness in their communities.
Voices of Transformation: Survivors and Perpetrators Speak
The workshop’s most poignant moments came from personal testimonies. Christopher Sinamenye, a former genocide perpetrator from Gasabo District, moved the audience with his story of redemption. “I killed my Tutsi neighbor in 1994, but through GER’s programs, I confessed, sought forgiveness, and now fight against genocide ideology,” he shared. His message to the youth was clear: “Love one another. Discrimination has no place in our future.”
Miss Mukarumanzi Claudette, a survivor from Bugesera District, spoke through tears. “I never thought I could forgive those who killed my family and left me for dead. But GER cleansed my soul. Today, I stand reconciled with those who hurt me.” Her story underscored the power of forgiveness and the resilience of the human spirit.
Madam Josephine Murebwayire addresses the workshop on April 4, 2025
A Youthful Pledge for the Future
Hirwa Bruce, a University of Kigali student, left inspired. “These testimonies have changed me. I will use social media to spread messages of reconciliation and love to my peers,” he vowed. His enthusiasm mirrored the hope of a new generation determined to uphold peace.
GER-Rwanda: Committed to support existing process of peace building
GER-Rwanda has emerged as a leader in peacebuilding, with programs spanning Ruhango, Rwamagana, Bugesera, Kigali, Kicukiro, and Gasabo districts. Mr. Silas Ntamfurayishyari, a Unity Champion from Bugesera, praised the organization’s work. “We must protect one another’s rights, for we are all equal before God,” he said, recalling his own efforts to save Tutsi students during the genocide.
A Unified Vision
As the workshop concluded, participants stood united in their resolve to honor the past while building a brighter future. The event’s success was a testament to Rwanda’s unwavering journey toward reconciliation—a journey fueled by courage, forgiveness, and the collective will to never forget.
Mr. Silas Ntamfpurayishari shares his insights during the workshop
Key Takeaways:
- Visionary leadership: Innocent Musore lauded the visionary leadership of Rwanda with the hope that the experience of Rwanda will support the post conflicts countries in Africa and beyond
- Solidarity:Rwandans urged to stand together during the 31st genocide commemoration.
- Reconciliation:Powerful testimonies from survivors and perpetrators highlight healing.
- Youth Engagement:Young leaders pledge to combat genocide ideology through social media.
- Regional Call to Action:GER-Rwanda advocates for peace in the face of DRC unrest
Participants engage in discussions during the one-day workshop at Centre Christus Urumuli
