On this occasion, they reaffirmed their commitment to combating genocide denial and minimization, which still persist in Belgium and in other parts of the world.
The event included a commemorative walk through the city of Bruges, followed by commemoration talks.
Commemorative walks held abroad represent an important contribution to raising awareness about the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, while conveying a strong message: “Never again.”
Yvette Umutangana, coordinator of the event in Bruges, called for strengthened efforts to combat genocide ideology, which remains visible in various places, including Belgium. She also emphasized the importance of continued remembrance.
She stated: “Let us continue to remember and remain united. Let us stay committed to rebuilding our country. We are fortunate to benefit from good leadership. We must honor the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi while also confronting its denial, which persists here in Belgium and elsewhere in the world.”
Umutangana also stressed that telling Rwanda’s history truthfully is essential to counter those who distort it for their own interests. She paid tribute to the FPR-Inkotanyi for stopping the genocide.
“We must remember that it took courage and sacrifice for the FPR to stop the genocide. Without that, we would not be here today,” she added.
The event was also attended by the Mayor of Bruges, Dirk De fauw, who highlighted the importance of remembrance in preventing such tragedies from happening again. He also praised the unity and commitment of the local Rwandan community in organizing the event.
The President of Ibuka Memory and Justice – Belgium, Mutabazi Twagira Eugène, spoke about the establishment of the organization in Belgium and shared a personal testimony about members of his family who were killed.
Artists Mariya Yohani and Nyiranyamibwa Suzanne also contributed through songs dedicated to remembrance during the ceremony.
The commemoration concluded with an evening vigil marked by testimonies and the display of photos of victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi. Participants honored them by speaking their names and recalling their lives.
The day also featured a testimony from Yves Kamurase, a survivor of the Genocide against the Tutsi.
karirima@igihe.com
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