As Rwanda commemorates 32 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, NCBA Bank Rwanda stood with the nation and the global community in remembrance, reaffirming its commitment to preserving memory, fostering unity, and supporting survivors. The commemoration event brought together NCBA staff and leadership at the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi, where they paid tribute to more than 250,000 victims laid to rest at the site. As one of Rwanda’s most significant national memorials, Gisozi serves not only as a place of remembrance, but also as a centre for learning. Reflecting on history, resilience, and call for shared responsibility across generations The bank staff and management were guided through the memorial, reflecting on the events that led to the Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994, the devastating loss of over one million lives, and the country’s journey of rebuilding through unity, accountability, and resilience. They also listened to a deeply moving testimony from a survivor, alongside a detailed narration of the events before, during, and after the Genocide. Speaking during the commemoration, NCBA Bank Rwanda Managing Director Maurice Toroitich emphasised the importance of remembrance as a shared responsibility across generations. “We are part of a generation that must actively protect what this country has rebuilt—a generation that must reject division, not just in moments of crisis, but in the small, everyday interactions where respect, dignity, and unity are either upheld or eroded,” he said. Understanding history and confronting denial The history session was led by Maj (Rtd) Jean Marie Vianney Ruhamiriza, the bank’s Security Manager, who walked the team through Rwanda’s history—from the seeds of division sown before independence, to the organised planning and execution of the Genocide, and the denial that persists even today. “That is why ‘Never Again’ is not just a statement for today. It is a daily commitment to stand against anything or anyone that seeks to rewrite history, deny the Genocide, or sow new seeds of division,” he said. From remembrance to tangible support: empowering survivors, sustaining unity Beyond the memorial visit, NCBA Bank Rwanda has committed to extending its commemoration efforts through tangible support initiatives aimed at restoring dignity and strengthening resilience among survivors. As in previous years, the bank will provide livestock to support sustainable livelihoods and economic independence for Genocide survivors in Musanze and Rubavu. Through continued support to survivors and a sustained commitment to unity, the NCBA remains dedicated to playing its part in safeguarding Rwanda’s progress and ensuring that the lessons of the past continue to guide the future.
