The Rwandan government emphasizes the importance of vigilance against entrenched intolerance among diverse communities worldwide to prevent future genocides, drawing lessons from the tragic events of 30 years ago.
Speaking at an event marking the 30th anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi, Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Kenya, Martin Ngoga, underscored the imperative of confronting hatred, discrimination, and division wherever they emerge. Ngoga emphasized that genocide is not an isolated event but a consequence of societal tolerance towards prejudice and intolerance.
“As we commemorate the painful events of the past, we must remain committed to creating a world where diversity is celebrated, differences are respected, and individuals can live free from fear and discrimination,” Ngoga asserted.
The commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the genocide serves as a stark reminder of the tragedy that befell Rwanda, with over a million lives lost in just 100 days. While the Rwanda Patriotic Front, under the leadership of Paul Kagame, halted the massacres, Rwanda remains vigilant against potential future threats.
Ngoga urged Rwanda’s allies and the international community to continue the fight against perpetrators of genocide and to bring them to justice. He condemned genocide denial as a crime that must be combated vigorously.
“Genocide deniers propagate hate ideology and misinformation, which must be confronted by all means,” Ngoga declared, referencing the ongoing efforts to ensure accountability for the atrocities committed during the genocide against the Tutsi.
Acknowledging the international significance of the genocide, the United Nations designated April 7th as the International Day of Reflection on the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. The 100-day commemoration period in Rwanda symbolizes the duration of the genocide in 1994.
During a ceremony held at the UN headquarters in Gigiri, Kenya expressed solidarity with Rwanda and praised its remarkable progress in rebuilding and overcoming its tragic past. Dr. Korir Sing’oei, the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, emphasized the importance of protecting human rights and learning from history to prevent future atrocities.
“We must remain vigilant in protecting the inherent human rights of all individuals and act decisively to prevent the recurrence of such atrocities,” Sing’oei affirmed, highlighting the crucial role of international cooperation in promoting peace and security worldwide.
