On Saturday, April 20, the Urukundo Rwandan Organization, the Rwandan community in Norway, and the Embassy of Rwanda to the Nordics, hosted the 30th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Oslo. The event drew 350 guests, including representatives from the Norwegian government, heads of missions, parliament members, and Rwanda’s friends from Tanzania, Burundi, DRC, Uganda, Kenya, and Norway. Felix Muhigana, the president of Norway’s Urukundo Association, delivered a poignant address to the gathered attendees, emphasising the profound significance of acknowledging and drawing lessons from historical events. In his remarks, he expressed heartfelt appreciation to RPF-Inkotanyi for their decisive action in bringing an end to the harrowing 100 days of horror, a dark chapter that Rwanda and its people endured. Furthermore, Muhigana extended gratitude towards the Norwegian government for their reception and support over the past 30 years. He particularly highlighted the commendable efforts made by Norway in facilitating the seamless integration of Rwandan children into Norwegian society. This integration, he noted, has empowered these young individuals to embrace and celebrate their dual identities, cherishing both their Rwandan heritage and their Norwegian upbringing. In addition, Muhigana took a moment to applaud the unwavering commitment and resilience displayed by the Rwandan youth in Norway. He commended their dedication to their homeland and the collective strength they exhibit in contributing positively to Rwandan society. Ambassador Diane Gashumba expressed gratitude to the Norwegian government, the heads of missions and diplomatic corps, and friends of Rwanda for their involvement in the commemoration. She emphasized, “While freedom of speech is fundamental, it’s crucial to differentiate it from hate speech dangerous rhetoric, and misinformation. As Rwandans, we recognise the dangers of divisive speech and call upon our Nordic allies and the global community to address these double standards regarding freedom of speech.” She added, “Fostering unity and understanding is vital, rather than allowing platforms to be used to sow discord and distort history.” Ambassador Gashumba raised concerns about the credibility of certain individuals labelled as “heroes” or “experts” who are given platforms to spread misinformation without being fact-checked or questioned. She particularly highlighted Paul Rusesabagina, convicted of terror attacks in southwestern Rwanda from 2018 to 2019, who “continues to use platforms like the Oslo Freedom Forum to disseminate misleading information and promote his own false narrative.” This individual is also associated with MRCD whose military wing, FLN, attacked Rwanda, resulting in innocent civilian deaths and property destruction. Gashumba questioned why this individual, despite his criminal record, is presented as an expert, an advocate, and an activist without being scrutinised. She emphasised the importance of using common sense and listening to facts rather than allowing such individuals to exploit their platforms to distort historical truths and sow discord. She further criticised the Oslo Freedom Forum for failing to ask basic questions and ignoring indisputable facts, such as the man’s own admissions in videos where he claims his full support to the armed forces that killed innocent people. Gashumba called on the forum to question the authenticity of the man’s claims of saving lives and to question him about his part in the deaths of innocent Rwandans. She referred to the conclusion made by a judge from the City of Westminster Magistrates’ Court in which he described Rusesabagina’s testimony as “lacking independence” and noted his background as “strongly allied to the extremist Hutu faction.” The judge “noted the individual’s tendency to make exaggerated and wild claims, even accusing the regime of being responsible for the Genocide.” Andreas Motzfeldt Kravik, State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented the Norwegian Government. He stood in solidarity with Rwandans during the solemn occasion, stating that such atrocities must never occur again. He emphasised that the world needs to learn from what happened in Rwanda. Geraldine Umutesi, a Genocide survivor, shared a poignant account of the horrors she endured during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Umutesi testified about her elder sister, Yvonne Ingabire, who heroically sacrificed her life to save hers. She said this act of bravery gives her the daily strength to live on, care for others, and avoid falling into despair. Despite the profound and extensive consequences of the Genocide, Umutesi chooses to fight rather than merely survive. She aims to honour the dignity of all Genocide victims and contribute to rebuilding their shattered nation. Quoting President Paul Kagame, she said, “In front of a challenge, either you fly, or you fight.” She said the darkness of Genocide no longer defines Rwanda, and she is dedicated to preserving memories and building a nation based on sustainability and dignity. Hubert Shema, President of the Rwandan youth in Norway, spoke on the responsibility of the youth in carrying on remembrance of the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Shema recounted the inaction of the international community despite warnings, referencing Canadian General Romeo Dallaire’s efforts to protect the Rwandan people, which were ultimately thwarted by UN bureaucracy. Expressing his frustration as someone born and raised after the Genocide, Shema lamented the devastating losses suffered by the Tutsi community, the rebuilding process, and the world’s passive stance. However, inspired by President Kagame’s resilience, Shema has channelled his frustration into ambition, aiming to contribute to Rwanda’s growth and prosperity. He emphasised the importance of remembering the Genocide to prevent its recurrence and called on the younger generation, who comprise 70% of the population, to remain vigilant. Shema urged young people to actively participate in memorial services and raise awareness about the events of 1994, cautioning against complacency and emphasising the need for self-reliance in safeguarding their nation’s future. The event also featured a panel discussion with youth born after the Genocide. They shared their perspectives and pledged to work towards maintaining a united Rwanda. In the panel and a message of hope, youth, and children expressed gratitude to their parents for revisiting traumatic memories to educate and prevent future genocides. They also highlighted the silence of the world as they witnessed the loss of loved ones, neighbours, teachers, and friends during the Genocide. They also expressed their gratitude to the Government of Rwanda for the new Rwanda that is peaceful and unified. Professor Jo Stigen, the author of “The Relationship between the International Criminal Court and National Jurisdictions: The Principle of Complementarity”, highlighted the importance of justice and the international community’s role in delivering justice to Genocide victims. The Kwibuka 30 events in Oslo commenced with a “Walk to Remember”.
