32 years later, music still heals where it once harmed

Thirty-two years later, artistes continue to mourn alongside Rwandans, using music as a force for healing where it once caused harm. Before and during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, music was exploited by the genocidal regime as a tool to incite violence and killings. Today, however, it serves a very different purpose—fostering reconciliation, unity, and remembrance. For this reason, many artists have turned to music to commemorate the Genocide, transforming it into a medium of reflection and resilience. As Rwanda marks Kwibuka 32, music speaks powerfully to memory. Artists are shaping the commemoration through echoes of remembrance, harmonies of healing, and songs that transform a painful past into messages of hope. What are the new songs? Agakanzu ka Murerwa “Agakanzu ka Murerwa,” by Musinga Joe, tells a poignant story of how parents used ingenuity to save their children during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The song highlights the courage and wisdom of parents who disguised their sons in girls’ clothing to help them evade death. “It shows the role, importance, and wisdom of parents who used girls’ clothes to help their sons survive,” the artist explains. “This allowed some boys to pass through roadblocks unnoticed, as they were perceived as girls. In some cases, the truth was discovered, and they were killed. Nevertheless, the story remains a powerful testimony—some managed to survive by crossing those barriers, and their stories continue to be remembered today.” Watch “Agakanzu ka Murerwa” Shikama “Shikama” is a collaborative song composed by ten artists, including Mani Martin, Musinga Joe, Mibirizi, Bonhomme, Jean de Dieu Ndahimana, Grace Mukankusi, Liza Kamikazi, and Jado Gasana. It was created to mark 30 years since the founding of IBUKA. The song reflects on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi while offering hope to survivors. It acknowledges Rwanda’s painful past and highlights the country’s journey of rebuilding, emphasizing unity, resilience, and hope for a better future. It also credits the Inkotanyi for stopping the genocide and encourages Rwandans to safeguard the progress achieved—especially national unity and resilience. “Shikama” stands as a message of remembrance, healing, and hope, reminding listeners of how far Rwanda has come. Watch “Shikama” Mutunge (Remix) “Mutunge,” performed by Gakondo singer Cyusa Ibrahim, is a revival of a song originally composed by the late Ladislas Twahirwa, a musician who never had the opportunity to gain widespread recognition. Twahirwa wrote the song years ago, inspired by the 1959 anti-Tutsi violence that forced many, including himself, into exile in countries such as Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He passed away before he could release it. “Mutunge” carries a profound message about the persecution and displacement that preceded the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It serves as a reminder of the historical injustices that shaped Rwanda’s past. Cyusa notes that although the song was composed long ago, its message remains relevant today, helping audiences better understand Rwanda’s history. Watch “Mutunge” Ndacyababara “Ndacyababara,” by rapper Ish Kevin, featuring Poet Rumaga and Ibyanzu, is a deeply reflective piece that expresses lingering confusion, pain, and trauma. Through vivid imagery, the artists describe nightmares, haunting memories, and even lingering sounds and smells that continue to affect survivors. The song suggests that sorrow does not necessarily kill, and that grief is not always visible through daily tears. It also reflects on the enduring shame carried by perpetrators, suggesting there is no relief from the weight of their actions. It raises profound and difficult questions—about faith, the presence of God during the 100 days of genocide, and the coexistence of good and evil within humanity. The song was performed during the 15th edition of the “Our Past” event on April 9, an initiative that highlights Rwanda’s history and encourages youth to stand against genocide denial while preserving memory. Watch “Ndacyababara”

Entertainment

32 years later, music still heals where it once harmed