Post Genocide Rwanda through the eyes of the youth

The majority of the Rwandan youth happened to be young or yet to be born when the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi took place. Being too young to comprehend the situation at the time, they have had to contend with horrific tales, pain inducing songs, shocking sights of skulls and a past that left them with dark memories. The yesteryears babies have come of age and are engaged in rebuilding the country. Society Magazine’s Patrick Buchana took to the streets and got views from them on the impact of the atrocities, the transformation and the future. Mariam Shyaka, Student at University of Rwanda I was two-years-old when the Genocide against the Tutsi happened. My family and I fled to Uganda. When we returned in 1997, Rwanda was in ruins and there were very few shops and markets operating at the time. Most items were scarce and expensive. We now live in a better country, we have an abundance of commodities, schools, universities and Rwanda is an advanced country compared to how it was back in 1997. The rapid positive change makes Rwanda a model country. ********************************************** Emanuel Mutangana, Programmer I was born in Uganda, but there is nothing as good as living in your own country. It is amazing how the current government has transformed a shuttered country into a very secure state. I have to say that, today, Rwanda is perhaps the most crime-free African country and Kigali is a very safe city. I can walk home at 3am when I’m sure that I will get there safely without being attacked by murderers or thieves. ************************************************** Steven Kabengera, Rugby player I was very young by the time the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi happened in Rwanda, but we all know that it was one of human history’s darkest times. More than one million people were killed in just hundred days. I laud the government for enforcing the commemoration process, because it is the only way we remind ourselves about the Genocide and pay tribute to the victims. It will also help the generations to come to know about Genocide and its aftermath. Today, I am thankful because we have come this far, united and share the same vision of development. Rwandans have achieved a lot in 20 years. ***************************************************** Idriss Mbuguje, Graphic Designer People usually say that the youth emulate what their elders or leaders do; this is true. In Rwanda, it is not just said but it has been experienced. For example, all the awards that are being given to Rwandans, most of them are won by the youth competing with adults. We have a cheerful youth that is motivated by a great leadership. ICT is well driven by the youth and we should always celebrate that. ************************************************** Aphrodice Mutangana, Entrepreneur We were divided at one time, and the division caused the 1994 Genocide. A government that comes to power and unites people that were killing each other to rebuild what was lost, is a government governed by God. This system has helped the young people to grow with an understanding of our culture. It also encourages us [Rwandans] to play an active role in the rebuilding of our nation. *************************************************** Ruth Ingabire, Student I was nine years when the Genocide against the Tutsi broke out. My parents were rich but we lost everything during the Genocide. I didn’t have hope that my life will ever be the same again. It surprises me that I actually managed to complete my University education. I have a good job now and I can take care of my relatives. I’m now trying to establish myself and I am not worried, because I believe that the Genocide will never happen again in Rwanda.