He was speaking during the 32nd commemoration held at the Canadian Museum of History.
“We remember the lives that were lost. We honour the dignity that was denied. And we reaffirm the responsibility that history has placed upon all of us. Kwibuka is not only an act of memory. It is an act of truth, an act of resistance, and a call to action,” he said.
Amb. Higiro also emphasized the urgent need to confront genocide denial wherever it appears, warning that indifference is never neutral: “Indifference is not neutral. It never was.”
The commemoration, organized by the High Commission of the Republic of Rwanda in Canada in collaboration with RCA Ottawa-Gatineau, the Humura Association, and PLP Canada, drew approximately 800 participants, including members of the diplomatic corps, Canadian government representatives, Members of Parliament, the Rwandan community, and friends of Rwanda. The event was held under the theme “Remember — Unite — Renew.”
The afternoon began with the Walk to Remember, a symbolic procession led by the Humura Association along the Ottawa River, culminating in a flower release. The formal ceremony followed, featuring a moment of silence, candle lighting, a nondenominational prayer, survivor testimony, artistic performances, and remarks from distinguished speakers.
Canadian government engagement was notable.The Office of the Prime Minister posted on X: “Today, we remember and reflect on the horrific 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. We honour the victims, survivors, and everyone whose lives were changed forever by the atrocities and commit to building a better world where such horrors are never forgotten or repeated.”
Greg Fergus, Member of Parliament, expressed solidarity with the Rwandan people, while Ms. Cheryl Urban, Assistant Deputy Minister, delivered remarks on behalf of the Government of Canada, reaffirming Canada’s commitment to remembrance and genocide prevention.
Arielle Kayabaga, MP for London West, sent a formal message recognizing the Humura Association’s role in fostering community unity and remembrance.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Bojana Coulibaly, PhD, Harvard University, who stressed the importance of confronting revisionist narratives: “Denial is not an opinion, it is part of the genocide process.”
A moving testimony from genocide survivor Diane Muberarugo reminded attendees of the human cost of the tragedy and the enduring resilience of survivors. The event concluded with closing remarks by Ms. Denyse Umutoni, President of the Humura Association, reflecting the strength of community partnership in Canada.
The 32nd commemoration of Genocide against the Tutsi , known as Kwibuka32, continues over a 100-day period, with commemorative activities taking place across Canada and worldwide, reinforcing the global commitment to remembrance, truth, and the prevention of genocide.
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