On Thursday, April 10, over 200 employees from the Rwanda Food and Drug Administration (FDA) honored victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi at the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This solemn occasion allowed participants to contemplate Rwanda's somber historical path toward reconciliation and unification. Led by former Anglican minister Antoine Rutayisire—a genocide survivor—the ceremony encompassed poignant dialogues and firsthand accounts. During his speech, Rutayisire highlighted the detrimental impact of colonial policies that divided Rwandans along ethnic lines, ultimately leading to catastrophic consequences like the Genocide. He underscored the necessity of recognizing and honoring pre-colonial times when communal bonds transcended tribal distinctions. "Commemorating means more than recalling sorrowful incidents," Rutayisire stated. "It involves reclaiming human dignity." Emile Bienvenu, director general of the FDA, echoed these sentiments, stressing societal accountability in preventing future genocides. He acknowledged efforts made under current leadership to foster harmony within the nation. Throughout the day, attendees engaged with performances dedicated to memorializing the event, including musical renditions by artist Susanne Nyiranyamibwa and testimonials presented by fellow FDA member Fidèle Bimenyimana. His narrative detailed surviving unspeakable horrors during childhood due to conflict. In addition to reflecting on recent developments surrounding remembrance activities—such as district observances spanning 100 days—and examining key dates related directly to unfolding atrocities post-Genocide, Rutayisire reiterated calls for vigilance regarding persistent threats posed by extremist rhetoric both domestically and abroad via platforms such as social media networks operating beyond borders. He further advocated for sustained education initiatives aimed at fostering mutual respect among various factions comprising modern-day society, drawing parallels between ancient customs promoting inclusivity versus contemporary practices fueling discord. Lastly, young participant Rose Uwamariya articulated perspectives held amongst today’s burgeoning populace concerning appropriate approaches toward perpetuating awareness around traumatic episodes without succumbing solely to superficial gestures often prevalent online culture.
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