From Hate to Hope: The Evolution of Rwandan Media
As the Rwandan media fraternity on Friday, April 12, commemorated journalists killed in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, reflecting on the role played by people who spread hate and the bravery of those who stood up against discrimination, it was noted that post-Genocide media chose to be a force for good.
At least 60 journalists are known to have been killed during the 1994 Genocide that claimed more than one million lives in 100 days.
During the commemorative event which was attended by relatives of the slain journalists, government officials, and representatives of journalists’ associations, the mourners condemned the media houses such as ‘hate radio’ RTLM and Kangura newspaper, which fueled the killings of the Tutsi.
Journalists like Vincent Rwabukwisi, the founder of Kanguka newspaper who opposed the Genocide and was killed as a result, were honoured for their bravery.
“Today, we mark 30 years of our country’s reconstruction, and journalism has notably grown,” said Minister of Local Government Jean Claude Musabyimana.
