KIGALI — Rwanda has marked 32 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi with a strong message from First Lady Jeannette Kagame, calling on the nation—especially young people—to protect truth, reject misinformation, and continue building a united and resilient country.
In a reflective message released ahead of the national mourning period, Mrs. Kagame said that although more than three decades have passed, the memory of the genocide remains vivid and continues to shape Rwanda’s responsibility to prevent hatred and division from returning. She emphasized that the fight is no longer only about remembrance, but also about confronting the growing spread of false narratives that distort Rwanda’s history.
She warned that the forces that once fueled genocide ideology have not disappeared, but have instead reorganized and found new ways to spread misinformation, sometimes gaining support beyond Rwanda’s borders. She described this as an ongoing campaign of distortion, where lies are repeated until they begin to challenge the truth, even in influential global spaces.
Mrs. Kagame expressed concern that individuals and groups who helped stop the genocide and rebuild Rwanda are now, in some cases, being unfairly accused or misrepresented. She said it is troubling to see those who risked their lives to save others and restore dignity to the nation being portrayed negatively, while the reality of what happened in 1994 is sometimes minimized or misunderstood.
At the center of her message was a tribute to genocide survivors, whose resilience and willingness to rebuild have played a critical role in shaping modern Rwanda. She highlighted their decision to forgive and move forward as one of the most powerful contributions to the country’s recovery, noting that Rwanda’s progress in unity, reconciliation, and development is rooted in their strength.
She stressed that today’s generation has a responsibility to carry that legacy forward. Addressing young people directly, she urged them to remain vigilant, think critically, and question the information they receive, especially in an era where digital platforms can amplify misinformation quickly. She expressed confidence that Rwanda’s youth have the capacity to seek truth and stand firm against manipulation.
Mrs. Kagame made it clear that the phrase “Never Again” is not simply a statement of hope, but a continuous commitment that requires constant vigilance and action. She said preventing future atrocities depends on the willingness of individuals and communities to actively resist hate, defend truth, and uphold human dignity.
As Rwanda enters another period of remembrance through the annual Kwibuka commemoration, her message reinforces the importance of preserving historical truth and ensuring that the lessons of the genocide remain central to the country’s identity. She noted that while Rwanda has made significant progress over the past 32 years, the work of protecting unity and preventing division is ongoing.
Despite global challenges, including rising violence and misinformation in different parts of the world, Mrs. Kagame expressed confidence in Rwanda’s direction. She pointed to strong leadership, national cohesion, and a shared commitment to truth as key factors that will continue to guide the country forward.
She concluded by reaffirming Rwanda’s determination to safeguard its future, emphasizing that remembrance is not about dwelling on the past, but about protecting the truth and ensuring that future generations inherit a peaceful and unified nation.
