Jeannette Kagame praises IBUKA’s 30-year role, urges continued vigilance

Madam Jeannette Kagame has commended the 30-year journey of IBUKA, the umbrella organization for survivors of the Genocide against the Tutsi, urging it to continue advocating for survivors and safeguarding Rwanda’s future.

Founded in 1995, IBUKA was established to support survivors, preserve the history of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and ensure such atrocities never happen again.

Speaking at an event marking the organization’s three decades of existence, Jeannette Kagame praised the courage of its founders and the continued solidarity of Rwandans who have supported its mission.

She said Rwanda continues to bear the burden of a painful legacy passed from one generation to another.

“Rwanda endured a great tragedy. It is a heavy burden that this legacy remains ours to carry as a nation,” she said.

She emphasized that remembrance is neither shame nor pride, but a responsibility, noting that the genocide was made possible by a failure of humanity that led to the killing of more than a million people because of their identity.

Kagame stressed that remembering the victims is a duty for all Rwandans, saying a society that does not remember cannot thrive.

She described IBUKA as a response to Rwanda’s painful history and a symbol of resilience for a generation that endured immense suffering but chose to rebuild.

“Despite the devastation, the spirit of Rwanda and its people remains unbreakable when we stand together,” she said.

She acknowledged the difficulties faced over the past three decades, praising survivors for their strength and resilience.

“The journey has not been easy, but your courage and perseverance are beyond measure,” she said.

Kagame highlighted forgiveness as one of the most significant achievements, describing it as a sign of strength rather than weakness.

“Forgiveness is a powerful choice. It reflects the courage to reject hatred and break free from cycles of resentment,” she said.

She noted that 30 years marks an important milestone for reflection and growth, encouraging IBUKA to address remaining challenges while building on existing opportunities.

Kagame also warned against complacency, urging Rwandans to remain vigilant against genocide denial and distortion of history.

“We will never regret the choices we made to build the Rwanda we want. This responsibility belongs to all of us,” she said.

She added that history has shown the international community often fails to prevent genocide, underscoring the importance of self-reliance in ensuring national security.

“If we are not vigilant, what we have built at a great cost could be lost,” she said, calling for a renewed commitment to the principle of “Never Again.”

Kagame called on young people to take responsibility for preserving Rwanda’s unity and continuing its development.

Dr. Rose Mukankomeje, one of IBUKA’s founders, emphasized the need to strengthen the teaching of history, particularly in higher education, to prevent misinformation and denial.

“History must be taught and researched in a structured and consistent way,” she said.

She urged young people to uphold integrity, protect the country’s legacy and ensure past tragedies are never repeated.

Gahamanyi Landoald recalled the early days of IBUKA, noting that the organization expanded from the former Gitarama to all communes, addressing numerous challenges faced by survivors.

“There were many urgent issues, including the dignified burial of victims, which led to the establishment of temporary memorial sites,” he said.