On 12 April, the Kigali Genocide Memorial received over 65 students from the Uyisenga Ni Imanzi charity organisation who paid respects to the victims of Genocide against the Tutsi and learnt about the dark history of the country.

The students toured the exhibitions at the memorial, and learnt about the tragic history of Rwanda before and during the Genocide. The exhibitions left students with a reaffirmed commitment to sustain peace and educate future generations about the horrors of genocide.

“Everyone is responsible for the prosperity of their country. We, Rwandans, should take the first step to build peace and promote it across the country to prevent the Genocide from happening again,” said Egide Gatsinzi Turinimana, Education Programme Coordinator for Uyisenga Ni Imanzi.

After visiting the exhibitions, the group said they found each section educative. They believe this information adds to empowering them to fight genocide ideology, both locally and internationally.

“By working together as Rwandans, we can achieve anything. Let’s unite and fight against genocide ideology in Rwandan society and across the world,” said Liliane, a Rwandan who fled to Senegal during the Genocide against the Tutsi and is now studying at university in Rwanda.

In his message to survivors, the National Director of Uyisenga Ni Imanzi, Chaste Uwihoreye, comforted them, and encouraged them to build the country for a better future.

“Surviving a genocide is a stroke of luck that shouldn’t be forsaken. As survivors, be thankful, confident and remember that you are alive. Never be held back by sorrow or hatred of those who killed your relatives. Remember the history but also do whatever it takes to rebuild yourself and your country as well.”

Uyisenga Ni Imanzi is an organisation that helps survivors of the Genocide against the Tutsi, orphans and vulnerable communities by fundraising for tuition fees and other basic scholastic needs for students so that they can attain an education.