The company, which continues to lead Rwanda’s aquaculture sector, held the annual commemoration as part of its ongoing commitment to remembering the past and fostering the values of unity, resilience, and leadership that have shaped the nation’s recovery.
Emmanuel Bahizi, Managing Director of Kivu Choice, underscored the significance of the event, urging the company’s staff both in Rwanda and across the region to understand the importance of this moment in Rwanda’s history.
“Our success, both as a country and as a company, is deeply rooted in the history and culture of Rwanda. It is crucial for every employee to understand and embrace this history,” Bahizi stated.
Kivu Choice’s leadership has made the event an annual tradition, ensuring that each member of the company understands the importance of the genocide commemoration.
With a workforce of nearly 800 employees in Rwanda and 1,500 across the region, Bahizi emphasized that this moment is not only an opportunity to honor those who were lost, but also a reminder of the unity and strength that have enabled Rwanda to rebuild.
This year’s event at the Rebero Genocide Memorial had special significance as the memorial pays tribute not only to the victims of the genocide against the Tutsi but also to political leaders and figures who stood for peace and unity during the darkest moments in the country’s history.
Bahizi reflected on the responsibility of Kivu Choice, a pioneer in Rwanda’s aquaculture industry, to set an example for the rest of the country and beyond.
“We are pioneers in our industry, and we have a responsibility to lead by example,” Bahizi explained. “It is essential for us to live by the core values of Rwanda, demonstrating unity and commitment to the values that have shaped the country’s recovery. We hope to set an example for the rest of the industry.”
Addressing employees, Bahizi delivered a powerful message of unity.
“The message is one of remembrance, paying our respects to those we lost during the Genocide against the Tutsi, but also remembering that we must live with unity. By continuing to live in unity every day, we ensure that such a tragedy never happens again,” he said.
Bahizi also encouraged employees to honour the memory of the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi by working hard and striving to build a brighter future
“The people we lost would want us to live for them and to achieve things that would make them proud. This is what we strive for every day, committing ourselves to a future that honours their memory,” he noted.
Kivu Choice’s visit to the Rebero Genocide Memorial was a poignant reminder of the ongoing importance of remembrance, unity, and collective responsibility in building a future that that honours the past.
Emmanuel Bahizi, Managing Director of Kivu Choice, delivered a heartfelt at Rebero Genocide Memorial.Managing Director of Kivu Choice, led his employees in a solemn tribute at Rebero Genocide Memorial, as they respectfully lay flowers on the graves of the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.Kivu Choice employees gained valuable insight into the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi, deepening their understanding of the nation’s journey of remembrance and healing at Rebero Genocide Memorial.Kivu Choice employees honoring the memory of those who lost their lives during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.Kivu Choice made a donation to Rebero Genocide Memorial, as a gesture of respect and remembrance for the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Researchers from Mass General Brigham analysed large health databases and previous clinical trials to compare how different blood pressure goals impact long-term health outcomes. Using data from sources such as the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), they created models that simulated how many heart attacks, strokes, and cases of heart failure might be prevented by treating people more intensively.
The study found that targeting blood pressure below 120 mm Hg prevented more cardiovascular events than higher goals like 130 mm Hg, even after considering common measurement inaccuracies that occur in everyday clinical settings. This suggests that pursuing a stricter treatment target could lead to fewer serious heart-related illnesses over time.
However, lowering blood pressure more intensively isn’t without drawbacks. Patients treated to reach the stricter goal had a greater chance of experiencing side effects related to medications, including falls, kidney injury, very low blood pressure (hypotension), and slow heart rate (bradycardia). Additionally, stronger treatment required more doctor visits and medications, which increased overall healthcare costs.
Despite these challenges, the researchers concluded that the lower blood pressure target remained cost-effective when compared with higher targets. They estimated the cost to be about $42,000 per quality-adjusted life-year gained, a standard measurement used in healthcare to evaluate the value of medical interventions.
Lead author Dr. Karen Smith said the findings should give patients at high cardiovascular risk and their doctors more confidence in pursuing intensive blood pressure control.
“Our findings suggest the intensive less than 120 mm/Hg target prevents more cardiovascular events and provides good value, and this holds true even when measurements aren’t perfect,” said Dr. Smith.
She emphasised, however, that treatment decisions should be personalised, as not all individuals will benefit equally from very aggressive blood pressure lowering.
While there is some risk associated with lowering blood pressure more aggressively, this strategy may prevent more heart attacks, strokes, and heart failures and still be worth the investment for many patients, especially those at higher risk for cardiovascular disease.
Lowering blood pressure to under 120 mm hg could prevent more heart problems.
New research presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Istanbul, Turkey, has revealed that obesity affects men and women in different ways. This study challenges the traditional view that obesity impacts everyone similarly. By understanding these differences, healthcare providers may be able to tailor treatments more effectively for each gender in the future.
The research, conducted by scientists from Dokuz Eylul University in Turkey, analyzed health data from 248 men and 886 women with obesity. Their findings highlighted significant gender-based variations in the effects of obesity. Both men and women face considerable health risks due to obesity, but the type of risks they encounter differs.
Men are more likely to accumulate abdominal fat, particularly around vital organs. This visceral fat is closely associated with increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, and other metabolic issues. Furthermore, men with obesity tend to have higher liver enzyme levels, indicating added stress on the liver.
For women, the impact of obesity manifests differently. Women with obesity are more prone to higher total cholesterol and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels, both of which increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
“These differences are likely influenced by biological factors such as hormones, immune responses, and fat distribution,” noted lead researcher Dr. Zeynep Pekel. “Our next steps are to validate these findings in larger populations, better understand the biological processes behind these differences, and explore how these patterns relate to clinical risk.”
Additionally, women tend to have elevated inflammation markers, such as C-reactive protein, which suggests a greater risk of chronic health conditions. These findings imply that women with obesity may face a higher burden of inflammation-related health issues compared to men.
Researchers believe that these gender differences are primarily due to biological and hormonal factors. Women typically store fat under the skin, while men tend to store fat around internal organs, particularly in the abdominal region.
Although the study provides valuable insights, it is important to note that it was cross-sectional, meaning it captured data at only one point in time. Additionally, the study participants were primarily from a single ethnic background, which may limit the broader applicability of the results. Further research, particularly involving more diverse populations, is needed to confirm these findings and explore them in greater detail.
The new study, conducted by scientists from Dokuz Eylul University in Turkey, offers insights into how obesity affects men and women differently.
The findings were published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society and are based on observations from highly sensitive radio instruments.
Using advanced radio telescopes like the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR) in the Netherlands and India’s upgraded Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (uGMRT), scientists captured detailed images of this eruption. The images reveal new jets of energy bursting out from the galaxy’s center, twisting and turning under the extreme pressure of surrounding hot gas. This is just one example of how these enormous cosmic entities continue to shape their environments in ways we are still learning about.
What makes this discovery particularly interesting is that the black hole has shown signs of being active in cycles, switching between periods of quiet and powerful eruptions over millions of years. In fact, the black hole’s jets appear to have erupted multiple times, with layers of older, faded plasma surrounding the new jets. This suggests that the black hole has experienced repeated bursts of activity over its long history, making it an exceptional case study for astronomers.
The surrounding gas is not just a passive background, either. It actively interacts with the black hole’s jets, shaping their direction and structure. The jets bend and compress as they move, creating intricate patterns in the radio images. Some regions of the gas show signs of having aged and lost energy, revealing the long, complex history of the black hole’s relationship with its galaxy.
This discovery gives scientists new insights into the life cycles of black holes and their role in shaping the galaxies they reside in. By studying how black holes cycle through active and dormant phases, astronomers can better understand the processes that drive galaxy evolution across the universe.
In the future, researchers plan to use even more advanced telescopes to observe this black hole and others like it, aiming to uncover even more about how black holes influence their galaxies and the cosmos as a whole.
Black Hole Awakens After 100 Million Years, Erupts Like a Cosmic Volcano.
These are the words of Grégoire Nyirimanzi, 57, a former local official, expressing deep remorse.
Once entrusted with the responsibility of protecting civilians, he instead violated that duty and actively participated in their extermination during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Born in Nyakabanda Sector, Nyarugenge District, Nyirimanzi served as a sector executive secretary during the genocide.
He participated in meetings with senior leaders, including former President Juvénal Habyarimana, where a consistent agenda was promoted: the systematic extermination of Tutsis based solely on their identity.
Nyirimanzi is currently serving a 30-year prison sentence at Nyarugenge Prison in Mageragere, following his conviction for genocide-related crimes.
He was arrested in Gabon, where he had fled, and was repatriated to Rwanda in 1997. He was subsequently tried and imprisoned that same year, with his sentence expected to conclude in 2027.
Reflecting on his actions, he stated: “I incited Hutus to kill Tutsis. I distributed firearms that were used in these killings. I also sent young people for weapons training and encouraged them to participate in the atrocities committed against the Tutsis in 1994.”
He recalls distributing approximately ten firearms, which he had received from the former Nyarugenge Commune, to local administrative leaders at the cell and village levels. These weapons were later used in attacks against Tutsis in his area.
One of the most distressing incidents, he recounts, is the attack on Pastor Amoni Iyamuremye: “He was burned alive in his home while I was leading the attack. This act has deeply affected me. That image continues to haunt me, even after I sought and received forgiveness from his son.
“I led numerous attacks, including those at Collège Saint André, at Iyamuremye’s residence, and at the homes of Laetitia and Jean Baptiste. There were many others I cannot even count. Many lives were lost in these attacks.”
Addressing common narratives that attempt to minimize or deny the Genocide against the Tutsi such as claims that it was unplanned or triggered solely by the downing of President Habyarimana’s plane Nyirimanzi firmly rejects such assertions. He emphasizes that genocidal ideology was systematically instilled long before the violence erupted.
“We were taught nothing of value except genocide ideology. I remember seeing the bodies of Tutsis lying everywhere and questioning how I could still be alive. Today, I receive medical care and support, yet I feel unworthy of such treatment.”
He further reflects on the organized nature of the genocide, questioning why some continue to deny its occurrence: “Tutsis were shot, burned, and brutally killed in broad daylight. Denial is a deliberate act, often motivated by personal interests. The genocide devastated our country, leaving it in ruins. Those of us who took part now live with deep regret. Anyone who doubts this should come and see the evidence.”
As evidence of premeditation, he points to the preparation of lists identifying Tutsis to be targeted. He personally compiled such lists in Nyakabanda, while other leaders in districts such as Rusizi did the same independently, without direct coordination.
He also describes how authorities required lists of young men to be sent for military training at the Gabiro Military Camp, where they received instruction from French trainers.
“The youth who underwent this training were later encouraged to continue to Bugesera to join earlier attacks against Tutsis. These events did take place. Rwambuka Fidèle, who was the mayor of Commune Kanzenze at the time, played a role in those initial phases of the violence.”
Participation in high-level meetings to coordinate the extermination of Tutsis
Nyirimanzi further substantiates claims that the Genocide against the Tutsi was systematically planned by describing his involvement in high-level meetings with political leaders and influential figures.
Among those he encountered were former President Juvénal Habyarimana and prominent businessman Félicien Kabuga, who has been widely associated with financing the procurement of machetes used during the killings.
He recalls a significant meeting held in Rebero and chaired by President Habyarimana. The gathering brought together leaders from various administrative levels, ranging from local cell authorities to senior government officials and high-ranking military officers.
According to Nyirimanzi, the purpose of the meeting was made explicit.
He recounts that Habyarimana declared that the country had been attacked by an enemy and emphasized that immediate action was required. Participants were urged not to remain passive but to mobilize and confront the identified enemy whom he explicitly defined as the Tutsi population.
During the meeting, a local official raised concerns about the lack of necessary equipment. In response, Habyarimana assured attendees that weapons would be provided, stating that firearms were available and that those without guns would be supplied with grenades or machetes. He emphasized that all available means should be used to carry out the objective.
Nyirimanzi also describes attending meetings involving influential civilian actors, including Félicien Kabuga. While Kabuga’s involvement has been contested by some, Nyirimanzi asserts that he played a direct and active role. He specifically recalls a meeting held at Kabuga’s residence in Muhima, where Kabuga pledged material and logistical support for the killings.
According to Nyirimanzi, Kabuga assured participants that they would face no shortages, stating that weapons including guns and machetes were readily available.
He further committed to providing logistical support, including food supplies for those carrying out the attacks. Nyirimanzi insists that any denial of Kabuga’s involvement is deliberate and unfounded, noting that he clearly remembers both the meeting and Kabuga’s presence.
The meeting was attended by several prominent figures, including senior members of the ruling MRND party and leaders associated with the Interahamwe militia, further underscoring the coordinated nature of the planning.
Efforts to uncover the truth within the prison system
More than three decades after the Genocide against the Tutsi was halted, challenges remain in uncovering the full truth particularly regarding the locations where victims’ bodies were dumped.
Nyirimanzi notes that some perpetrators, including those already convicted and imprisoned, continue to withhold such information.
He explains that significant efforts have been undertaken within the prison system to encourage transparency and accountability.
However, these efforts have faced resistance from a group of former leaders who still wield influence, both within correctional facilities and beyond.
According to him, this group actively discourages others from cooperating, urging them to remain silent and avoid disclosing any information.
Despite this resistance, Nyirimanzi expresses confidence that truth will ultimately prevail.
He highlights his own role in revealing information that led to the discovery of human remains at the Rwezamenyo bus station information that had remained undisclosed for nearly 25 years, despite the presence of individuals living nearby who had never come forward.
Grégoire Nyirimanzi, a former executive secretary of Nyakabanda Sector in Kigali, is currently imprisoned for his role in the Genocide.
Nyirimanzi recounts that when survivors of the Genocide against the Tutsi approached him seeking reconciliation or asking him to reveal the locations where their relatives’ bodies had been buried, he initially felt deep fear.
Given the severity of the crimes he had committed, his hesitation was significant. However, the survivors reassured him, demonstrating forgiveness and encouraging him to speak openly.
This support enabled him to overcome his fear and disclose the locations of mass graves, allowing families to recover the remains of their loved ones and provide them with dignified burials.
He explained that he identified several burial sites, including one near the Nyamirambo Brigade and another in a place known as Ku Ryanyuma’ near the stadium.
He noted that, although local residents had long been aware of these sites, many had chosen not to speak. His testimony ultimately contributed to meaningful outcomes, as families were able to locate and properly bury their relatives.
Nyirimanzi conveyed a message of reassurance to survivors, expressing his intention to contribute positively to society upon completing his sentence. He emphasized his willingness to take part in rebuilding what he had helped destroy.
On the issue of seeking forgiveness, he stated that many inmates at Nyarugenge Prison are eager to apologize to those they wronged. He called for structured initiatives to facilitate dialogue and reconciliation across communities.
He noted that many individuals complete their sentences while still burdened by fear and uncertainty about facing their victims.
He believes that creating opportunities for reconciliation before release would allow them to seek forgiveness and reintegrate into society with a sense of emotional relief and responsibility.
Testimony before the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR)
Nyirimanzi also revealed that he provided testimony to investigators and appeared before the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), where he gave evidence regarding the role of senior military officials in the genocide.
He testified in cases involving high-ranking officers, including Gratien Kabiligi, Théoneste Bagosora, Aloys Ntabakuze, and Lieutenant-Colonel Anatole Nsengiyumva.
According to his account, these individuals played a key role in distributing weapons to civilians and organizing meetings that encouraged participation in the killings.
He stated that they not only facilitated the widespread distribution of weapons but also used meetings to persuade participants that the violence was justified, framing it as a necessary act of retaliation against an alleged enemy.
In subsequent ICTR rulings, Gratien Kabiligi was acquitted, while Théoneste Bagosora and Aloys Ntabakuze were each sentenced to 35 years in prison. Anatole Nsengiyumva received a sentence of 15 years.
Nyirimanzi expressed a profound sense of regret that he did not live under Rwanda’s current leadership during that period. He spoke positively about the country’s governance, emphasizing the promotion of national unity and the absence of division.
He highlighted the progress made in ensuring equal opportunities, noting that access to education and employment is no longer influenced by family background or past associations.
As a personal example, he pointed out that his own child is able to study and work without discrimination, despite his past actions.
He expressed appreciation for what he described as inclusive leadership, which prioritizes unity and does not punish children for the crimes committed by their parents.
Inmates at Mageragere Correctional Facility were recently provided with a book written by Yolande Mukagasana titled ‘Umurage w’Urubyiruko’ Part One.
Human DNA is made up of long chains of three‑letter units called codons. These codons tell the cell how to build proteins, and many of them can be different but still produce the same amino acid. Until now, scientists assumed that those different codons with the same meaning were interchangeable.
However, a research team from Kyoto University and RIKEN, led by scientists Osamu Takeuchi and Takuhiro Ito, has shown that cells don’t treat all codons equally. Some codons are more efficient at producing proteins, while others are weaker. The team discovered that cells actively recognize and silence the less efficient messages, giving stronger instructions priority in gene expression.
Central to this process is a protein called DHX29, which acts like a quality controller. The researchers found that DHX29 attaches to the ribosome the cell’s protein‑making machinery especially when it encounters these weaker codons. Once there, DHX29 recruits another set of proteins, the GIGYF2•4EHP complex, to selectively suppress the weaker genetic messages.
Co‑corresponding author Masanori Yoshinaga explained the importance of the findings:
“Together, these findings reveal a direct molecular link between synonymous codon choice and the control of gene expression in human cells.”
This discovery challenges the long‑held assumption that synonymous codons are functionally the same, revealing a hidden layer of genetic control. It could deepen scientific understanding of critical biological processes such as cell differentiation, balance within cells, and even the development of diseases like cancer.
The researchers say they will continue to explore how DHX29 influences gene activity in both normal physiology and disease.
New discovery reveals hidden “second code” in DNA that regulates gene expression.
The research team, led by Flinders University in collaboration with international scientists, has determined that the immune system sometimes misinterprets a key blood protein, platelet factor 4 (PF4), as a virus protein. In extremely rare cases, this misunderstanding prompts the immune system to produce antibodies that cause blood clots to form.
Dr. Jing Jing Wang, the lead researcher, explained the significance of the findings:
“By modifying or removing this specific adenovirus protein, future vaccines can avoid this extremely rare reaction while continuing to provide strong protection against disease.”
This new understanding builds on previous studies and advances our knowledge of immune responses that lead to clotting disorders, particularly after the use of adenovirus-based vaccines, such as the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine.
These vaccines had been linked to the rare condition known as thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS), which prompted the scientific community to seek answers.
Professor Tom Gordon, a senior expert involved in the study, emphasized the importance of this discovery: “It has been a fascinating journey with an outstanding international team of collaborators to solve the mystery of this new group of blood clotting disorders.”
The study’s findings highlight a phenomenon known as molecular mimicry, where the immune system mistakenly identifies the PF4 protein as a viral agent.
This insight is crucial for the development of future vaccines. With this new knowledge, researchers can modify the design of adenovirus-based vaccines to prevent this rare side effect, ensuring their continued effectiveness in preventing COVID-19.
This discovery represents a critical step in improving vaccine safety and advancing the understanding of immune responses to viral infections.
Researchers are optimistic that these insights will not only benefit COVID-19 vaccination efforts but also contribute to the development of safer vaccines for other diseases in the future.
Scientists discover key to preventing rare blood clots linked to COVID-19 vaccines.
Researchers at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) found that these imperfections are actually part of the solar cells’ success.
Unlike traditional silicon‑based solar cells, which need to be almost perfectly pure, perovskites use their flaws to help electric charges travel efficiently through the material.
The research, published in Nature Communications, shows that networks of microscopic defects inside perovskite crystals act like “highways” for electric charges.
When sunlight hits the material, it creates positive and negative charges that need to move through the solar cell to produce electricity.
These defect networks help separate and guide the charges so they don’t recombine too quickly, which boosts efficiency.
According to the scientists Dmytro Rak and Zhanybek Alpichshev, this mechanism explains why perovskite cells perform so well despite being less pure than silicon.
Rak said the team’s work “provides the first physical explanation of these materials while accounting for most if not all of their documented properties.”
Perovskite materials have been studied for about 15 years and are exciting to researchers because they can be made with inexpensive solution‑based methods. They also show promise for use in other technologies, like LEDs and X‑ray detectors.
This discovery may bring scientists one step closer to making cheaper and more powerful solar cells that could be used at large scale in the real world.
By understanding how these internal pathways work, engineers can design better solar technologies that don’t rely on high‑cost manufacturing methods like those used for silicon.
New research reveals how flaws in perovskite solar cells enhance their performance.
These talks, initially held in Doha, were relocated at the request of Qatar, the mediator in the process. The move comes as a result of escalating conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran, which has destabilized parts of the Middle East and affected the region’s ability to host such diplomatic engagements.
According to reports published on April 10 by Jeune Afrique, the meetings will not take place in Geneva, and Switzerland will not play a direct role in the discussions. Instead, Qatari representatives are expected to participate remotely via video conference.
Among the key international figures expected to attend are Massad Boulos, Special Advisor to the U.S. President on Africa , and Vivian van de Perre, Deputy Head of the United Nations peacekeeping mission in DRC (MONUSCO) in charge of operations.
Mubita Luwabelwa, Executive Secretary of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), is also expected to take part.
The AFC/M23 delegation will consist of six members led by its Permanent Secretary, Benjamin Mbonimpa. At the time of reporting, the composition of the DRC government delegation had not yet been made public.`
This phase of the peace talks will primarily focus on facilitating humanitarian assistance. Both sides are expected to discuss practical measures to ensure that aid organizations can effectively deliver support to civilians affected by the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
One of the major expectations from the international community is the reopening of Goma International Airport, which has been under AFC/M23 control since January 2025. Earlier in 2026, Vivian van de Perre visited Goma and formally conveyed this request to AFC/M23 leadership.
However, tensions remain. Reports indicate that AFC/M23 has been reluctant to proceed with discussions on humanitarian matters while key prior agreements remain unfulfilled. These include adherence to the ceasefire and the mutual release of prisoners.
AFC/M23 continues to accuse DRC government forces of carrying out daily attacks on areas under its control using drones, fighter jets, and heavy weaponry, resulting in civilian casualties.
Although both parties previously agreed to establish a joint ceasefire monitoring mechanism involving MONUSCO and the ICGLR, this initiative has yet to become operational.
Following AFC/M23’s withdrawal from the city of Uvira in January 2026, MONUSCO forces were expected to take over and oversee ceasefire compliance. While assessment missions have been conducted, full deployment and active monitoring have not yet begun.
In a previous humanitarian gesture, AFC/M23 allowed the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to transfer over 1,300 soldiers and police officers who had taken refuge in its controlled areas near Goma back to Kinshasa.
In March 2026, AFC/M23 announced plans to release 5,000 DRC soldiers, expressing hope that the government would reciprocate by freeing detained members of the group. However, confidence in such a reciprocal move has been steadily declining.
Available information indicates that by early 2026, the ICRC had already identified the locations and identities of AFC/M23 detainees. Despite this, no progress has been made, as the DRC government has not agreed to release them.
AFC/M23 maintains that continued military offensives and the refusal to release prisoners demonstrate a lack of genuine commitment to peace on the part of the DRC government.
Instead, the group argues that the government still appears to believe that the conflict can be resolved through military means rather than dialogue.
Peace talks are set to resume in Switzerland amid unfulfilled commitments by the DRC Government.
Rwanda, alongside the international community, is currently marking the 32nd commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, during which more than one million people were killed in just 100 days.
Speaking at an event held on April 10, 2026, in remembrance of journalists who were killed during the Genocide, Dr. Bizimana highlighted the critical role played by the media in fueling the violence.
He explained that several high-ranking government officials were actively involved in the leadership of RTLM while still serving in state institutions.
Among them was Donath Hakizimana, then Secretary General of the National Intelligence Service, who was responsible for supplying RTLM with information and recruiting loyal, hardline journalists.
Gaspard Musabyimana, now living in Belgium where he operates Radio Inkingi an outlet that continues to promote genocide ideology was in charge of programming and coordination with intelligence networks.
Also involved was Ferdinand Nahimana, one of the principal ideologues of the Genocide, who authored propaganda encouraging Hutu unity against Tutsis under what was called the “civil self-defense” (Auto-défense civile) campaign.
These individuals, along with others, formed influential committees that recruited skilled and trusted journalists, many drawn from ORINFOR and used them to orchestrate propaganda campaigns that encouraged the killing of Tutsis.
Those recruited included Noheli Hitimana, Joel Hakizimana, Ananiya Nkurunziza, Georges Ruggiu, Valérie Bemeriki, Joseph Gatsikira, and others known for their engaging and persuasive broadcasting style, often centered on music, sports, and general entertainment.
Dr. Bizimana emphasized that Habimana Kantano stood out as one of RTLM’s most influential figures. He cleverly used his popularity as a passionate fan of Rayon Sports to mobilize members of the Interahamwe militia and incite them to commit killings.
He noted:“Kantano was widely recognized as a devoted Rayon Sports supporter. He often wore the club’s attire and carried a drum wherever he went. He was highly popular, and whenever he spoke on RTLM, many young people listened closely because of his influence.”
RTLM broadcasts frequently included explicit hate speech, such as: “Tutsis, you cockroaches, we will kill you.”
RTLM began broadcasting on July 8, 1993, and quickly became popular, particularly among young audiences, due to its modern and engaging programming. The station aired a wide range of music, including Zouk, Rumba, American genres, gospel songs, and more.
Its large audience enabled it to spread hatred and extremist propaganda with alarming ease, significantly contributing to the rapid escalation and widespread nature of the killings during the Genocide.
Ferdinand Nahimana was the Director of RTLM.Habimana Kantano used his association with Rayon Sports to incite Hutu youth to kill Tutsis.
