Nyagatare: Private sector commemorates Genocide, donates 100 cows to survivors

Members of the Private Sector Federation (PSF), officials, security organs, and Genocide survivors convened at the Nyagatare Genocide Memorial in the Eastern Province district, on Friday, April 19, to commemorate the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, during which they donated 100 cows to survivors and families of victims of the Genocide. PSF Chairman in Eastern Province, Jean de Dieu Nkurunziza, told The New Times that the business community is determined to support the healing process, and boost livelihoods of survivors. ALSO READ: April-19-1994-tutsi-ordered-to-dig-own-graves-soldiers-shell-amahoro-stadium Nkurunziza said: “The business community contributed to committing Genocide atrocities, including buying machetes, petrol to burn Tutsi, and also providing other means to ease the execution of Tutsi; this is not in line with the vision and mission of the private sector. We came to stand with you in these difficult times, as we remember our loved ones who perished in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. You must know that you are not alone and never will be.” Pudence Rubingisa, the Governor of Eastern Province, thanked the business community for their “big hearts” and will to “come and stand with survivors in difficult moments, and their effort to build a country of unity.” He said: “ Your support demonstrates the true spirit of unity and resilience that defines Rwanda today. Together, we will continue to honour the memory of those we lost, and work towards a future of peace and prosperity for all Rwandans. To the youth, I urge you to learn from the past and be the generation that helps to build a brighter future for Rwanda. Your energy, creativity, and passion are essential in moving our country forward. ALSO READ:Where-youth-can-find-information-about-the-genocide Survivors optimistic Mark Nzungize, 79, a resident of Nyagatare, lived in Gisagara District during the Genocide. Interahamwe militias killed all of his family and cows; luckily, he managed to escape to Burundi and later relocated to Nyagatare District. He said: “I am so happy and thankful. I thank our country’s leadership, which continues to be close to us. Without this, we would live in utter misery and despair, but we remain strong. We don't feel left on our own. We remain strong and hopeful, thanks to our government and all the people with big hearts. “The livestock provided to us will greatly help sustain our livelihoods and provide for our families. We are truly blessed to have such support during our time of need. The kindness and generosity shown to us have restored our faith in humanity, and we are forever grateful for all that has been done for us. Another resident, Martha Mbateyimbabazi, said the cow she received is a true lifeline for her family, and the support provided will not only ease her financial burden, it has also given her a renewed sense of hope for the future. She is now looking forward to a brighter tomorrow, filled with possibilities and opportunities, all thanks to the generosity of others. She said: I had cows before the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi; Interahamwe killed and ate them, and now I am thankful that the cow will help improve the livelihood at my home, providing both milk and manure. This cow is not just a gift; it is a symbol of how the government takes care of survivors and a new beginning for us. I am grateful for this opportunity, and I am determined to make the most of it for the betterment of my family's future. ALSO READ: All-housing-challenges-for-genocide-survivors-to-be-addressed-by-2026 The delegation joined hundreds of area residents in a minute of silence and laid wreaths in commemoration of the victims laid to rest at Nyagatare Genocide Memorial. Efforts to help survivors of the Genocide in the province will continue, according to officials.

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Nyagatare: Private sector commemorates Genocide, donates 100 cows to survivors