Acknowledging the harmful role played by some Rwandan artistes in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi is crucial. Unfortunately, some musicians, poets, and other performers utilized their platforms to spread hateful propaganda and incite violence against the Tutsi population. According to reports, certain artistes even composed songs and poems that explicitly called for the extermination of the Tutsi. ALSO READ: Music incited masses, music bore the brunt of the Genocide However, in the aftermath of the Genocide, different artistes have been playing an important role in the country's ongoing efforts to combat the dangerous ideology that led to the tragedy, and have sought to use their talents to promote unity and reconciliation, and to help heal the wounds of their nation. One of them is Dieudonné Munyanshoza, also known as Mibirizi. Speaking during a Twitter Space organised by Twitter influencer Godfather, in partnership with Country Records on the night of April 11, he emphasized that art was used to spread conflict and genocide ideology through different artistes like Bikindi and Abanyuramatwi. He declared that some were pushed and others were paid. Munyanshoza pointed out that Loti Bizimana, Rodrigue Karemera, and Cyprien Rugamba, along with other prominent artists, wrote excellent songs that sadly led to their untimely deaths. However, he noted, their legacy serves as a positive example of the power of art. He further emphasized that in the past, music was used to propagate negative messages, but good art should serve as a bridge that connects and unites people. He declared that the responsibility now rests with present-day artistes to use their talent to showcase the best of Rwanda's history and culture. Munyanshoza appreciated the efforts of artists who attend commemoration events and use their platform to educate others, citing that such actions contribute positively to society and instill hope for the future. We must learn and comprehend the Genocide against the Tutsi to move forward and determine our course of action. It is crucial that we support each other, especially prominent figures, in using our influence for positive change and never allowing ourselves to be manipulated for negative purposes, he said. ALSO READ: Hate Radio: Theatre play on RTLM’s role in 1994 Genocide comes to Kigali Dr. Thomas Muyombo, known by his stage name Tom Close, emphasized that the commemoration period is a difficult time for all Rwandans and thanked the RPF Inkotanyi for their role in saving the nation and fostering unity. He commented that the responsibility of artistes is to share positive messages, asserting that they have the power to use their voice and have an impact, but they must understand the repercussions of their work, as many people can appreciate what they do. He cautioned both established and aspiring artistes to exercise caution and remember that they are human, and their words and actions have consequences. “You should carefully consider your message before releasing it to the public. As artistes, we have a responsibility to use our talents to not only build our own careers but also contribute to the betterment of our country and society,” he said Tom Close further encouraged young, upcoming artistes to align themselves with the positive aspects of Rwanda's developing history. “We should recognize that our success is tied to the peace and security of the nation and should not wait for financial compensation to contribute to the country's growth,” he said. ALSO READ: Kwibuka 29: There is no hiding place from facts of our history – Kagame According to Nour Fassisi, also known as Diplomat, artistes have a crucial role to play in combating conflict and genocide ideology. He believes that they can learn from the mistakes of past artistes who used their talents in destructive ways during the Genocide as he puts it, They have already shown us what we should not do. Diplomat urged current artistes to use their talents to build a better society instead. He emphasized the power of art in bringing people together and inspiring positive change. As artistes, we have a responsibility to use our talents for good, he says. Diplomat also emphasized that the Genocide against the Tutsi is an exceptional tragedy that should never be denied or diminished by anyone, declaring that both artistes and Rwandans have the responsibility to work tirelessly towards eradicating genocide ideology.
