{{The Kwibuka Flame of Remembrance on 4 April 2014 reached Ndera in Gasabo District, the 29th stop on its tour of Rwanda. The event reflected on the events of the 1994 genocide against Tutsi as well as the journey of unity and renewal in Rwanda.
Survivors gave testimonies describing how members of former Rwanda Armed Forces (ex-FAR) and Interahamwe Militia in the Habyarimana regime butchered citizens that had taken refuge in Petit Seminaire Ndera and CARAES Mental Hospital Ndera.}}
Kigali City Mayor, Fidele Ndayisaba said that the Rwandan Army before 1994, instead of fostering unity and harmony embarked on spreading hatred and Genocide.
It is shame for Former Government Forces to kill the people they were supposed to protect, Mayor Ndayisaba said.
Hopefully there were other brave men and women, the Rwanda Patriotic Army led by HE President Kagame that gave their lives and stopped the genocide, he added.
Minister of Defence, Hon Gen James Kabarebe, Chief Guest at the event, delivered a speech to the citizens gathered at Petit Seminaire Ndera. He said that the genocide against Tutsi was not an accident; it was a well prepared plan over 30 years ago.
Minister Kabarebe said that the genocide was conducted by Rwandans who killed their compatriots. He also underlined that the genocide was stopped by Rwandans themselves when International Community abandoned the country.
Gen Kabarebe lauded the courage of Rwanda Patriotic Army that stopped the genocide and said “that was the beginning of flame of hope for Rwanda”.
Gen Kabarebe said that the forces that stopped the genocide have never changed but have gained more strength to defeat genocide ideology and anyone that dares threaten the security of Rwanda.
Gen Kabarebe reminded residents that there are still some individuals who would want to see the country descend into anarchy again, but emphasized that they will never succeed.
“The power that stopped the Genocide is still ready to protect this country’s achievements,” he said.
“Our history should inspire all Rwandans to stand up against evil,” Minister Kabarebe added.
The Minister of Defence assured the population on their security and said the good leadership of Rwanda will ensure the flame of hope remain lit forever among Rwandans.
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