Liquid Intelligent Technologies contributes Rwf130m to digitising Genocide memorials

Liquid Intelligent Technologies has contributed more than Rwf130.8 million to Rwanda’s efforts to preserve the memory of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi through digitisation of memorial sites, protection of historical records and technology-based education for young people. The contribution, presented on October 20, marks the fifth year of the company’s decade-long $1 million commitment launched in 2022 in partnership with the Imbuto Foundation and the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE). The company has contributed more than Rwf600 million to the initiative so far. The partnership aims to preserve evidence, artefacts and historical records while making reliable information about the Genocide accessible to Rwandans and international visitors through digital tools. Sam Nkusi, Executive Chairman of Liquid Intelligent Technologies Rwanda, said preserving the country’s history was a responsibility shared across generations. “Preserving the memory of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi is a responsibility that extends across generations,” he said. “The company was proud to support efforts to protect Rwanda’s history in a dignified manner and ensure it remains accessible to future generations.” He said digital platforms could be used both to distort history and spread hate speech, and to promote truth, responsible citizenship and positive social change. “Technology is all we need,” he said, emphasising the importance of using technology to engage young people and help prevent a return to the country’s dark past. Liquid Intelligent Technologies is part of Cassava Technologies, an African technology group operating across more than 40 markets in Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. Its services include fibre broadband, satellite connectivity, cloud computing and cybersecurity. The emphasis is on digitisation Jean Damascene Bizimana, Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, commended the partnership, saying it supported the digitisation of memorial sites and the sustainable preservation of Genocide-related information. He said the Ntarama Genocide Memorial had been revamped and expanded to include comprehensive information about historical events and developments in Bugesera District. “We have so far revamped the Ntarama Genocide Memorial, expanding it and incorporating comprehensive information covering both historical and more recent developments, particularly those related to Bugesera District,” he explained. “Anyone visiting the site will find comprehensive information.” Bizimana said the Nyange Genocide Memorial was also being revamped. The site documents the destruction of Nyange Parish Church during the Genocide, which was orchestrated by former Catholic priest Athanase Seromba, who was later convicted for his role in the Genocide. “This demonstrates the failures of some religious institutions. Approximately 1,500 to 2,000 Tutsi sought refuge inside the church but were later killed,” he said. He said the revamp would improve access to historical information and help ensure that wrongdoing by institutions was properly documented. The minister also highlighted plans to modernise the Kigali Genocide Memorial using digital tools, including support for more than 20 languages. The longer-term ambition is to enable visitors to explore memorial sites independently and access historical information remotely. “Virtual access will also be introduced, allowing people to explore the sites from anywhere. However, we encourage people to visit in person because the experience offers greater meaning and interaction,” he added. Elodie Shami, Director General of the Imbuto Foundation, said the partnership had supported youth-focused initiatives, including the annual Igihango cy’Urungano programme, which promotes unity, reconciliation and social cohesion among young people. “We are also developing more digital platforms, particularly those that enable young people to engage widely through social media and other emerging technologies, including AI-powered tools that can help people ask questions and receive instant answers. The ultimate goal is to ensure the sustainable preservation of our history,” she said. Shami added that the foundation planned to expand youth hubs and extend Igihango cy’Urungano to more parts of the country to reach more young people and nurture responsible citizenship. The telecom giant noted that the partnership illustrates how digital infrastructure can support wider social objectives, from preserving national heritage to expanding educational opportunities. Five years into its ten-year commitment, Liquid says it will continue working with MINUBUMWE and the Imbuto Foundation to safeguard Rwanda’s historical memory and use technology to support education and social cohesion.

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Liquid Intelligent Technologies contributes Rwf130m to digitising Genocide memorials