On 16th July 2023, President Katalin Novák of Hungary visited Kigali Genocide Memorial to pay respects to the more than one million victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. 

The tour began with a laying of wreaths on the burial place where 250,000 victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi are laid to rest. President Novák was then guided through the museum, learning about the history of the Genocide, from the colonial roots of ethnic division through to the horrors of the killings. 

Among Rwandan Government officials accompanied President Novák on this visit, include Rwanda’s Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Hon. Dr Bizimana Jean Damascene together with Rwanda’s Minister of Environment, Hon. Dr Jeanne D’Arc Mujawamariya.  

During this visit, President Novák also had the opportunity to learn about the efforts by Rwandans to rebuild and reconcile after the Genocide and the work of Aegis Trust in Genocide prevention and peace education in Rwanda. 

To conclude this visit, President Novák left a message in the memorial guest book. 

She wrote: 

“I am deeply touched, but also inspired to see that after such horrifying atrocities Rwanda has found atonement and reconciliation. We Hungarian share your commitment to peace and peaceful coexistence. Lest we forget. You cannot understand the present and future of Rwanda without being confronted with its past. Thank you!” 

Photos of the visit can be viewed here:  https://www.flickr.com/photos/142016030@N02/albums/72177720310066622