PHOTOS: Igihango cy’Urungano: Honouring the past, safeguarding the future

The 13th edition of Igihango cy’Urungano has brought together hundreds of young people, in Kigali, to honour the memory of youth killed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and reflect on their role in safeguarding Rwanda’s unity and progress. ALSO READ: First Lady urges youth to be critical thinkers, fight Genocide denialism First Lady Jeannette Kagame is expected to preside over this year’s Igihango cy’Urungano, an annual youth forum that commemorates young victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and promotes national unity. The event taking place at Intare Arena seeks to inspire the new generation to safeguard Rwanda's unity and progress. ALSO READ: Youth urged to read Rwandan history, fight Genocide denial According to the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE), the forum provides an opportunity for young people to reflect on their role in protecting and preserving the achievements Rwanda has made since the genocide while promoting Ndi Umunyarwanda, a shared national identity centred on unity, resilience and collective responsibility. Why was Igihango cy’Urungano established? The initiative traces its roots to 2013, during the 19th commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, when President Paul Kagame called on young people to preserve and pass on the truth about the country’s history. Since then, the forum has served as a platform for youth to strengthen their commitment to preserving the country's history, protecting national achievements and ensuring that the genocide never happens again. ALSO READ: Failure not an option - First Lady Jeannette Kagame tells youth What is the forum's objective? According to organisers, the forum seeks to deepen young people's understanding of Rwanda's history before colonialism, during the colonial period and under the First and Second Republics whose policies culminated in the Genocide against the Tutsi. It also provides a space to remember and honour young victims of the genocide, discuss its impact on youth and society, and explore pathways towards healing and resilience. Another key focus is equipping young people with the knowledge and tools needed to prevent and challenge genocide denial, minimisation and distortion. What happens during the forum? Activities typically include testimonies from genocide survivors, historical lectures, panel discussions and dialogues on national unity. Participants also engage in conversations on combating genocide ideology, misinformation and historical distortion while reflecting on their role in shaping the country's future. Who organises the event? Igihango cy’Urungano is organised annually by the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Arts, Imbuto Foundation, the National Youth Council, and other stakeholders.

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PHOTOS: Igihango cy’Urungano: Honouring the past, safeguarding the future