On April 7th each year, Rwandans across the globe begin a 100-day commemoration period dedicated to remembering the lives of genocide victims.<\/p>\n
The ceremony lasted for a very short time and gathered a few people with regards to established preventive measures against coronavirus.<\/p>\n
President Kagame and the First Lady lay a wreath and lit a flame of remembrance to honour more than a million victims of the Genocide against Tutsi.<\/p>\n
Lighting a flame signifies that the memory still lives on and burns bright. It is a ritual that promotes reflection and signifies remembrance.<\/p>\n
In his address to the nation, President Kagame said that Rwandans are accustomed to comforting each other during this period and seeking solace in the arms of their neighbors especially during the Walk to Remember, vigils or discussions in our respective villages.<\/p>\n
He said that due to the unpredictable circumstances which led to the outbreak of coronavirus, Rwandans will not be together to commemorate as a nation but that it should not stop them from celebrating the lives of genocide victims and paying them the tribute they deserve.<\/p>\n
For the 26th commemoration, Rwandans will remember in their homes and local channels will broadcast discussions pertaining to the remembrance period. The Rwandan diaspora will be able to follow up on the discussions via social media and other digital channels.<\/p>\n
The Kigali Genocide Memorial is the final resting place for more than 250,000 victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi.
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