Amb. Shyaka addressed this critical issue during the 30th commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, which took place at the Jewish History Museum in Warsaw, Poland, on April 26, 2024.
The commemoration was attended by members of the Rwandan community in Poland, primarily students from various universities, along with Polish government dignitaries, including ministers, senators, presidential advisors, diplomats stationed in Warsaw, defense attaches from various embassies, and investors engaged with Rwanda.
In his speech, Amb. Prof. Shyaka acknowledged the efforts of some countries in prosecuting genocide suspects but noted that many still find sanctuary in parts of Europe and America. He remarked, “There are still over 1,000 indictments and arrest warrants for suspects of the genocide against the Tutsi… Most of these suspects are located in major cities across Europe, America, and Africa. Fortunately, none are currently in Poland.”
He called on all nations currently harboring these individuals to take action by investigating, arresting, or extraditing them to Rwanda. Amb. Shyaka also pointed out that the Genocide against the Tutsi was enabled by the then-prevalent genocidal ideology among the leadership. He contrasted this with the current era, where positive politics and policies are fostering Rwanda’s growth, peace, security, and unity.
Furthermore, Amb. Shyaka expressed optimism about Rwanda’s future, emphasizing the young demographic (75% under the age of 35), many of whom have no direct memory of the genocide, with others not yet born at the time.
He described the youth as the custodians of Rwanda’s future and the cornerstone of its unity, stressing the continuous need to safeguard and nurture this unity.
The ambassador extended gratitude to countries that have adopted international treaties aimed at preventing and punishing genocide, integrating these treaties into their national legislation.
The 30th commemoration event comes two and a half years after Rwanda opened its embassy in Poland and follows a three-day visit to Rwanda by Polish President Andrzej Duda in February 2024.
Rwanda and Poland continue to strengthen their cooperation in education, technology, politics, investment, and other areas. The commemoration of Genocide against the Tutsi began on April 7, 2024, and will last for 100 days.
The annual commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi commenced on April 7, 2024, and will continue for 100 days.
karirima@igihe.com
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