Artists as Guardians of Memory: Inkingi Art Space Visits Kigali Genocide Memorial to Reflect, Learn, and Champion Peace

Written by Fred Mfuranzima

Kigali, Rwanda – A group of artists from Inkingi Art Space, hailing from Rwanda, Burundi, Ghana, and Zambia, recently embarked on a profound and emotional journey to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Their visit honored the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi while providing a pivotal opportunity for deep reflection on this tragic chapter in African history. This experience renewed their commitment to using art as a powerful tool against genocide ideology and as a means to foster peace in their communities.

The delegation, led by Olivier Kwitonda, founder and CEO of Inkingi Art Space, paid their respects at the memorial, where over 250,000 victims are interred. They engaged deeply with the harrowing stories of survivors, explored historical exhibits, and contemplated the significance of remembrance and reconciliation.

“Visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial was profoundly impactful,” Kwitonda remarked. “Confronting the magnitude of the tragedy, hearing survivor stories, and witnessing the ongoing efforts for healing and remembrance has forever changed my perspective.”

Kwitonda shared five key reflections from the visit that he believes redefine the role of artists in society:

1. The significance of bearing witness
2. Amplifying the voices of the unheard
3. Upholding the duty to remember
4. Utilizing art as a catalyst for dialogue and peace
5. Navigating the ethical responsibilities in depicting trauma

“These insights have reinforced my dedication to creating art that evokes empathy, enhances understanding, and brings forth stories that must be told,” he added.

Voices from the Artists

Emanuel, Rwanda
“Though I was born after the genocide, this visit deepened my connection to the pain and resilience of our people. I feel a heightened responsibility as an artist to ensure that this history is not forgotten and to help cultivate a nation founded on unity.”

Nintwali, Burundi
“As someone from a country with its own challenges, this visit was transformative. It revealed how remembrance and education can lead to peace. I return home committed to using my art to inspire healing and solidarity across borders.”

Prince Temeng, Ghana
“This experience made history personal for me. I saw firsthand how art can preserve memory, challenge hate, and foster understanding. As a Ghanaian artist, I now view my work as not only creative but also a means to promote peace and education.”

Art as a Vehicle for Change

The artists from Inkingi highlighted the crucial role that creatives play in combating hatred, preserving history, and advocating for human rights. Through their art, which explores themes of identity, reconciliation, and collective memory, they aspire to promote dialogue and support healing.

As the visit wrapped up, Rwandan painter Rwigema reflected poignantly:
“Art speaks where words cannot. It allows us to remember, resist hatred, and envision a better future. Our brushes are instruments of unity, our colors narrate tales of resilience, and our canvases embody dreams of hope.”

The Kigali Genocide Memorial continues to serve as a powerful space for reflection and education. Visits like this highlight the importance of cultural dialogue and artistic expression in preventing future atrocities. The collective at Inkingi Art Space remains dedicated to using their craft to build a more compassionate, conscious, and peaceful world—one artwork at a time.