Rwanda solemnly commemorated the 30th anniversary of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, with President Paul Kagame at the helm, honoring the memory of over 800,000 lives lost in one of history’s deadliest tragedies.
During the commemoration, President Kagame delivered a keynote address expressing dismay at the United Nations’ failure to address the presence of Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), despite their known intentions to perpetuate genocide against the Tutsi.
“The UN stands by as history threatens to repeat itself. Why?” President Kagame questioned.
The event drew esteemed dignitaries from across Africa and beyond, including former US President Bill Clinton. Commemorative ceremonies included wreath-laying at the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre and poignant performances at the BK Arena, depicting the haunting experiences of survivors.
President Kagame reiterated Rwanda’s steadfast commitment to confronting any forces attempting to drag the nation back into its painful past. He warned against tribal politics and urged African nations to learn from Rwanda’s tragic history.
Despite the somber reflections, President Kagame expressed gratitude for the support of nations, particularly Uganda, in Rwanda’s struggle against genocide, underscoring the importance of international solidarity during times of crisis.
