Youth urged to combat genocide ideology

Young Rwandans, especially those born after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, must take keen interest in the circumstances under which the Genocide took place, be mindful of its consequences and fight its ideology. The remarks were made last Friday by various officials during the commemoration of women and girls killed in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, an event organized by Hope and Peace Foundation. The event that brought together students from primary and secondary schools around Kigali City was held in Nyamirambo, Nyarugenge district. Eric Zibukira, the in-charge of youth mobilization and programme officer at the National Youth Council, explained how in other genocides around the world, people were killed by foreigners while in the genocide against the Tutsi; victims were killed by neighbours, relatives and friends which makes it exceptional. He urged the youth to avoid the genocide ideology which nurtures the genocide. “Castigate the genocide ideology in every form. You are not too young to differentiate good from evil,” he said as he cited Nyange School heroes, former RPF Inkotanyi soldiers, among others who manifested bravery at a young age. Bernadette Mukamana, the representative of the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission, urged the youth to transcend any perceived differences and cherish what they have in common. “You share the country, culture, blood and that’s the most important relationship. Being Rwandan is more important than anything. That is a belief you should stick to,” she said. Honorine Uwababyeyi, the president of Hope and Peace Foundation, said had Rwandans upheld values, the country would not have experienced that tragedy. “We must take time, remember and reflect on that awful past and recommit to fight the genocide. We bring together children of victims and those of perpetrators to remove suspicion so that they can live in harmony,” she said. Created in 2013, Hope and Peace Foundation is a non-governmental organization that is involved in social therapy, counselling for survivors, especially victims of rape during the Genocide and children born of rape. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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Youth urged to combat genocide ideology