On April 7, 2025, Rwanda marked the 31st anniversary of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, with a somber commemoration in Abuja, Nigeria, attended by various dignitaries. Christophe Bazivamo, Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, delivered a poignant speech, urging global collaboration to combat genocide ideology and prevent such tragedies in the future.
The event, themed “Remember – Unite – Renew,” gathered people from diverse backgrounds to reflect on Rwanda’s painful history and reaffirm their dedication to preventing genocide. Bazivamo stressed that this day was not just for remembrance, but a call to action, urging the world to confront uncomfortable historical truths, reject genocide denial, and uphold the dignity of the victims.
“Kwibuka,” meaning “remember” in Kinyarwanda, is a time for unity, reflection, and revitalizing efforts toward a genocide-free future. Bazivamo underscored that “Never Again” must transcend a slogan, becoming a guiding principle in the pursuit of lasting peace.
He recognized the resilience of survivors, who have transformed their suffering into a force for healing, contributing to Rwanda’s national reconciliation through initiatives such as the Gacaca courts and the national unity program. He highlighted how Rwanda’s Government of National Unity, under President Paul Kagame, has focused on reconciliation and collective identity, with the concept of “Ndi Umunyarwanda” (I am Rwandan) at its heart.
Although Rwanda has made significant strides in healing, Bazivamo noted the persistent threats in the region, especially in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where genocidal forces are still active. He also voiced concern over the resurgence of hate speech and propaganda similar to that used before the 1994 genocide.
Bazivamo called for stronger international action, pointing out that the global community’s inaction during the 1994 genocide led to the deaths of over one million people. He urged renewed commitment to international frameworks like the 1948 UN Genocide Convention and UN Security Council Resolution 2150, stressing the moral and legal responsibilities of states to prevent and punish genocide.
He concluded by encouraging attendees to honor the memory of the victims, stand in solidarity with survivors, and commit to eradicating genocide ideology worldwide. The United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, also issued a statement, highlighting the urgent need for global action to tackle hate speech and division.
In Rwanda, President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame marked the anniversary by laying wreaths at the Kigali Genocide Memorial and lighting the “Flame of Remembrance,” which will burn for 100 days as a symbol of hope and resilience.
Kagame reaffirmed that such a tragedy would never happen again in Rwanda—not because those responsible wouldn’t try, but because the Rwandan people have united to prevent it. “What didn’t kill us 31 years ago has prepared us for the challenges ahead,” he declared.
The 1994 genocide, which lasted for 100 days, resulted in the brutal massacre of over one million people, mostly Tutsis and moderate Hutus, at the hands of extremist Hutu forces.
As Rwanda continues its journey of healing, Bazivamo’s message calls for worldwide solidarity and a renewed commitment to ensuring that the horrors of the past are never repeated.
