On the 31st anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Hanika Parish in the Diocese of Shyogwe held a solemn commemoration under the theme of remembrance, prayer, reflection, and compassion. The event was marked by scripture readings, poetry, songs, speeches, and symbolic acts of remembrance and support.
The Scripture was read by The Right Reverend Louis Pasteur KABAYIZA, Bishop of Shyogwe Diocese, from Mark 12:28–38 and Hebrews 13:7, grounding the day in God’s Word and hope.
Key Components of the Event:
- Prayers and worship
- Testimonies and messages from survivors
- A poem and performances
- A keynote address by Hon. Evode Kalima, Member of Parliament
- Speeches from national and local leaders
- Laying of wreaths at the memorial site
- A charitable act of supporting a genocide survivor
Special Guests Included:
- Bishop KABAYIZA Louis Pasteur and Madam
- Vice Mayor of Nyanza District in charge of Social Affairs
- National President of AVEGA
- IBUKA President in Nyanza
- Busasamana Sector Executive Secretary
- Representatives of the Army and Police
- DASSO Coordinator – Nyanza
- Head of Nyanza Prison
- Clergy and staff from the Diocese
- Alumni and leaders of Hanika schools and health center
Highlights from the Speeches:
Hon. Kalima Evode reflected on Rwanda’s painful history during colonization and the genocide, especially the atrocities committed in Hanika. He encouraged students to seek truth through history and resist distortion. He called for continued comfort and support for survivors.
The President of IBUKA (Nyanza) emphasized remembrance as a duty:
“We gather to honor the victims and condemn the perpetrators. Let the Word of God be preached, but also uplift people from poverty, because poverty makes them vulnerable. We thank the RPA for restoring life and hope.”
Survivor Testimony:
Musare Vincent de Paul shared a personal journey of survival, recalling how even some fellow students were among the killers, yet others protected lives with courage.
“We are grateful to the RPF for rescuing us and to the current leadership that continues to uphold life and dignity.”
Bishop KABAYIZA’s Message:
The Bishop thanked the government, led by H.E. President Paul Kagame, for liberating the country and supporting healing. He praised those who helped save lives during the genocide and reminded Hanika to raise students who embody salvation, humanity, love, and Christian values.
He added:
“Let us also pray for those who committed the genocide, that they may turn from darkness to light.”
Guest of Honor’s Message:
The guest speaker commended the Diocese and Hanika Parish for their commitment to remembrance and transformation. He condemned church leaders and Christians who participated in the genocide, saying:
“This must be a lesson never to repeat such evil. Let it also be a time for rebuilding unity, resilience, and rejecting division.”
He also urged the youth to cherish the privilege of being born in a Rwanda that promotes equality, dignity, and inclusion.
Act of Solidarity:
To conclude the event, a cow was donated to Mukarusine Aisha, a survivor of the genocide, as a gesture of support and restoration.
