As Rwanda enters its annual period of remembrance from April 7, the nation's musicians are once again using their voices to honor the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Different artistes have since released songs, lending their voices to the rallying call for remembrance, unity and renewal. During this solemn time, musicians from across the country released special compositions that serve to preserve historical memory, educating younger generations, and providing emotional catharsis for survivors. The New Times highlights some of the songs released so far to mark #Kwibuka31. Twamaganye Abapfobya Genocide-Yampano Up and coming singer Yampano released a song on April 6, titled “Twamaganye Abapfobya Genocide,” which empathizes on those who deny the Genocide against the Tutsi. “It devastates us when you deny it, while some of you took part in the Genocide or saw it happen,” he sings. Bihoye Iki- Jean Marie Jabo The singer, who has devoted his music career to commemoration music, each year releases a song during the 100-day commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi. “Bihoye Iki” is also a new song he wrote for this year’s commemoration. Talk to Me- Mikamis & KidfromKigali The two artistes recorded together ’Talk to Me,’ a commemoration song produced by Ehl3rs. The song not only highlights the horrors of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, it also brings strength to the survivors who lost their loved ones. Hora Rwanda- Jean Misigaro Misigaro recorded accompanied by AERG members from UR Huye and IPRC Huye, together they sang ‘Hora Rwanda’. The song comforts the survivors and gives hope that what happened won’t happen ever again. Mwirira- Samora Michael A song ‘Mwirira’ by Samora Michael comforts and strengthen Rwandan children after the genocide against the Tutsi that left many homeless and as orphans. It, however, shows how they have risen and became powerful people. The song was Produced by Iyzo Pro.
