The sports fraternity has lost thousands of athletes and executives to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. They are among over a million of Tutsi that Rwandans mourn every year beginning April 7. Sport has been one of important tools used to reunite Rwandans and, 30 years now, the sector’s impact is only paying dividends. Below are what athletes from various disciplines had to say as the country marks 30 years of commemoration. Tyson Niyogisubizo, REG VC The message to Rwandans during this difficult time of commemoration of the Genocide against Tutsi is to continue to stay strong and fight for the good progress of Rwanda. Our people who were killed because of the way they were born is something we have to learn from as athletes and youth. Let's continue to remember and build ourselves up. Samuel Mbesutunguwe, Police Handball Club captain As Rwandans, we must strive to prevent the genocide from happening again. We must not only remember our lost loved ones but also build ourselves. Rwanda is behind us; it is up to everyone to strive for the development of the country. Let’s keep the promise that it will not happen again. Kevin Muhire, Rayon Sports captain I feel very sorry for every Rwandan who was affected by the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994 and I encourage the young generation to fight against genocide ideology. We thank RPF Inkotanyi for stopping the Genocide. Dominique Savio Nshuti, Police FC Strength and courage to them! Our parents and brothers refused to embrace the pain and suffering caused by the Genocide against the Tutsis in April 1994 in order to live well. We, the youth, are the strength of the country and the time has come for us to serve the best for our country instead of doing bad deeds. Let's remember, but again,rebuild ourselves. Joseline Umulisa, tennis coach and genocide survivor I was disabled and I had been affected by the Genocide against the Tutsi. Doctors had ordered me to do sports and tennis was the one that I felt it would me more than any other sport. Athletes in different disciplines are role models and influential to many, they should be models during this period and own the planned commemoration activities. It is not only about joining the rest of the public in commemorating but also taking a good time to honour the sports men and women, coaches and administrators who were killed during the Genocide.
