On January 27, 2025, the Kigali Genocide Memorial, in collaboration with the Embassies of Israel and Germany in Rwanda, the United Nations Rwanda, and the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement, observed International Holocaust Remembrance Day. This year’s commemoration was particularly significant as it marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and the 30th anniversary of the Genocide in Bosnia.
Under the theme “For a Better Future,” the event reflected on the lessons of the past to build a world free of hate, discrimination, and antisemitism. Dignitaries from the Government of Rwanda, partner embassies, the United Nations, and Aegis Trust laid wreaths at the Kigali Genocide Memorial, honoring the victims of both the Holocaust and the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Speakers emphasized the importance of remembrance as a means of preventing future atrocities. H.E. Amb. Einat Weiss of the Embassy of Israel in Rwanda highlighted the necessity of confronting history to recognize and resist hatred:
“Remembering is our most powerful defense against indifference. Memory is a powerful tool of accountability, ensuring that ‘never again’ is not just a phrase but a guiding principle.”
H.E. Ms. Fatmata Lovetta Sesay, UNDP Rwanda Resident Representative, stressed the role of education in combating discrimination:
“If we genuinely mean ‘never again,’ we must take action and promote education that fosters empathy, inclusion, and mutual respect, particularly among the youth.”
German Ambassador H.E. Amb. Heike Uta Dettmann reflected on the shared global responsibility to remember and prevent future genocides, while Dr. Felix Klein, Germany’s Federal Government Commissioner for Jewish Life, emphasized that remembrance strengthens societies by acknowledging past injustices.
Prof. Uriya Shavit from Tel Aviv University praised Rwanda’s example of resilience and reconciliation, stating, “Seeing the Rwandan example, there’s a lot to learn from to build a bright future for all of us.”
Rwanda’s Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr. Jean Damascene Bizimana, reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to remembrance and prevention:
“This universal duty of remembrance is the responsibility of all. If we engage in memory without working to prevent future crimes, we fail in our mission. The Rwandan government will always stand in solidarity with these efforts.”
As the world continues to confront rising anti semitism and other forms of discrimination, the Kigali Genocide Memorial remains a place of reflection, education, and commitment to ensuring that history’s darkest chapters are never repeated.
