The event began at Marnixplaats-Antwerpen with a walk to the Palais de Justice d’Anvers, where commemoration talks were held before continuing to the commune of Edegem.
Chargé d’Affaires a.i. André Bucyana, representing Rwandan Embassy in Belgium, emphasized, “Your presence here signifies solidarity. It demonstrates our collective commitment to combatting the horrific history of the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, ensuring it never happens again anywhere in the world.”
Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana, reinforced this message, stating, “As I always say, the Genocide against the Tutsi is not solely a Rwandan issue. Perpetrating genocide poses a grave threat to the entire world.”
Dr. Bizimana also called for continued efforts to bring to justice those living freely in Belgian cities who were involved in the Genocide after previous trials had resulted in convictions.
Participants also heard testimony from Rwamukwaya Edmée Fauvette. Antwerp Mayor Bart De Wever commended genocide survivors for their courage in sharing their experiences from 1994.
He remarked, “I am grateful to the genocide survivors who provide us with their testimonies about what happened to their families and friends. Their stories help us remain vigilant and prevent a repeat of the hate spread by RTLM radio.”
Ephrem Kayihura, head of DRB-Rugali in Antwerp, honored those who risked and lost their lives to stop the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and urged collective action against genocide denial and revisionism.
Additionally, Edegem Mayor Koen Mestu committed to establishing a memorial site for Rwandans to commemorate the Genocide.
Artist Cecile Kayirebwa performed commemoration songs, and the youth presented a poem titled “Rwanda 1994 – Acors et à sang pendant le génocide des Tutsi,” authored by Mazina Déo.
Ernest Sagaga, President of Ibuka in Belgium, expressed gratitude on behalf of Ibuka, reaffirming their ongoing support for genocide survivors.
He also stressed the need to scale up efforts aimed at fighting Genocide deniers and shun their intentions to continue spreading hatred.
The commemoration events in Belgium began on April 7, 2024, and will continue in Charleroi and Tournai.
karirima@igihe.com
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