Rwanda’s Ambassador to Egypt, Dan Munyuza, issued a passionate plea for international solidarity in the fight against genocide ideologies, ensuring that the atrocities of the past, such as the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, never occur again.
Speaking at a commemorative event marking the 30th anniversary of the genocide, Ambassador Munyuza underscored the gravity of the tragedy and the imperative of collective action to prevent its recurrence.
“As we commemorate today, we remember the innocent souls that were brutally taken from us,” Ambassador Munyuza stated, evoking the profound loss suffered by Rwanda and its people. His poignant words painted a vivid picture of the horrors endured by victims, including babies, children, women, and men who perished solely because of their ethnicity.
Sharing a chilling anecdote from the genocide, Ambassador Munyuza recounted the heart-wrenching tale of a young child seeking refuge in a Catholic Cathedral, only to meet a tragic end at the hands of merciless killers. The harrowing narrative served as a stark reminder of the brutality inflicted upon Rwandan civilians during those dark days.
“The theme of our commemoration is: ‘Remember, Unite, Renew’,” Ambassador Munyuza reiterated, echoing the sentiments of President Paul Kagame. “We come together to remember those we lost, and to honor their memory, celebrate the resilience of survivors, and pledge a future free from such horrors.”
Dr. Frederick Golooba-Mutebi’s insightful presentation, “Understanding Post-Genocide Rwanda: Old Versus New,” offered valuable context into the historical and societal dynamics that precipitated the genocide. “The deliberate divisions within Rwandan society, particularly along ethnic and regional lines, paved the way for the tragic events of 1994,” Dr. Golooba-Mutebi, a scholar, emphasized.
Ambassador Ahmed Safwat, Deputy Foreign Minister for Nile Basin Countries, lauded Rwanda’s resilience and reconciliation efforts under President Kagame’s leadership. “The resilience and reconciliation displayed by the Rwandan people, under the wise leadership of President Paul Kagame, are quite impressive and commendable,” Safwat remarked. “It gives me pleasure to say that Egypt is trying to be part of that successful story through our bilateral relations, which are high on our priority.”
Ambassador Munyuza’s impassioned address and Dr. Golooba-Mutebi’s enlightening presentation underscored the importance of collective remembrance, reconciliation, and sustainable development in forging a future free from the scourge of genocide.
Rwanda’s transformative journey serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring nations worldwide to unite in their pursuit of peace and justice.
The commemorative event, attended by over 450 individuals from diverse backgrounds, served as a poignant reminder of the global commitment to supporting Rwanda’s ongoing efforts towards healing, reconciliation, and sustainable development.
As the international community reflects on the lessons of the past, it reaffirms its resolve to stand in solidarity against hatred and intolerance, ensuring that the vow of “Never Again” becomes a reality for generations to come.
