He delivered the message while addressing over 500 Rwandans living in Europe during an interaction focused on strengthening national unity and resilience among the diaspora, particularly young people born or raised outside Rwanda.
The youth, eager to better understand Rwanda’s history, progress, and future direction, constituted the majority of attendees.
Speaking at the event held in France, Dr. Bizimana thanked participants for attending the gathering, describing it as a moment that brought Rwandans together through their shared love for their homeland.
Acknowledging the diversity of language among participants, he encouraged them to learn Kinyarwanda, describing it as a unique national asset that strengthens unity and communication. He urged diaspora communities to organize cultural and language initiatives wherever they live to help preserve national identity across generations.
The minister said the engagement responded to a long-standing request from diaspora members seeking direct dialogue with government representatives. The initiative was discussed and endorsed during the 19th National Umushyikirano Council held in Kigali in January 2024, where diaspora delegates also participated.
Dr. Bizimana emphasized that the discussions were meant to provide practical insights based on real experiences rather than abstract theory, enabling participants to better understand Rwanda’s trajectory and make informed, patriotic choices about their connection to the country.
Reflecting on Rwanda’s history, he highlighted the country’s recovery from the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and the subsequent rebuilding of national unity, governance, and social cohesion. He warned against misinformation circulating on social media, saying false narratives continue to confuse some members of the diaspora, particularly those who did not grow up in Rwanda.
He urged young people not to inherit hatred or denial rooted in the past, stressing that acknowledging truth is essential for lasting reconciliation and unity. “Distance should not disconnect you from reality,” he said, encouraging diaspora youth to rely on verified information and remain engaged with developments in Rwanda.
The minister also outlined key milestones in Rwanda’s post-genocide reconstruction, including policies promoting equal rights for all citizens, national reconciliation efforts, reintegration programs for former combatants, and justice processes that helped rebuild social trust.
Addressing the youth directly, Dr. Bizimana described them as “the strength and the future of the nation,” urging them to take pride in their identity, maintain close ties with Rwanda, and contribute to the country’s development.
He concluded by emphasizing unity as the foundational value guiding Rwanda’s progress, calling on all Rwandans, wherever they live, to uphold the commitment of “Never Again” through shared responsibility and national cohesion.
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