Kwibuka 32: Community Honor Genocide Victims killed in the former Busengo Sub-Prefecture

Rwanda continues Stay determined in remembrance and unity as communities across the nation mark the 32nd commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. In Busengo Sector, a solemn and deeply moving comemoration brought together leaders, survivors, and citizens to honor the victims particularly those killed in the former Busengo Sub-Prefecture.

The commemoration began with a moment of silence and the laying of wreaths at the Buranga Genocide Memorial, where participants paid tribute to the innocent lives lost. The event drew high-level officials, including Member of Parliament Valens Muhakwa, the Executive Secretary of the Northern Province Pascal Ngendahimana, local authorities, representatives of survivor organizations, security organs, and members of the public.

Through her welcoming remarks, the District Mayor, Vestine Mukandayisenga, reflected on the enduring scars left by the Genocide against the Tutsi, emphasizing the painful legacy that still lingers today.

Mukandayisenga vestine, Gakenke district mayor

“The 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi left deep wounds that are still visible today. Those who were killed were innocent, and those who killed gained nothing. They believed they would completely wipe out the Tutsi identity, but they did not succeed.” She stated

Providing historical context, the Vice Mayor for Economic Development, Aimé François Niyonsenga, explained how long-standing divisionism laid the foundation for violence. He highlighted that persecution and killings of Tutsi began long before 1994, fueled by ideologies introduced during colonial times, eventually culminating in the Genocide.

Addressing the gathering, MP Valens Muhakwa called upon anyone with information about unburied victims to come forward so they can be given a dignified burial. He stressed the broader importance of this act.

“This is not only about comforting survivors of the Genocide against the Tutsi; it is also about healing ourselves and restoring dignity to all Rwandans.” He says

A powerful testimony was delivered by genocide survivor Salama Akimanizanye, who recounted the tragic history of her family. She emphasized that the Genocide was carefully planned over many years, with killings starting long before 1994. She also described the cruelty with which her loved ones were murdered, while expressing gratitude to the Inkotanyi who stopped the Genocide and liberated Rwanda.

The President of IBUKA in the district, Hamdoun Twagirimana, acknowledged the progress made over the past 32 years in improving the welfare of survivors. However, he pointed out that more effort is still needed, particularly in tracking down and prosecuting perpetrators who continue to evade justice in different parts of the world.

The Buranga Genocide Memorial, where 1,889 victims are laid to rest including those from the former Busengo Sub-Prefecture stands as a powerful symbol of remembrance and resilience. It preserves the memory of those who perished while reminding the nation of its responsibility to uphold truth and unity.