Culture can promote unity – Survivors

Promoting culture will combat the Genocide ideology and promote unity, according to members of ‘Indangamirwa Cultural Troupe’, during a show they held at the national stadium on Monday. The Indangamirwa Culture Troupe was founded by Dukundane, an association of Genocide survivors. Speaking at the function, the president of Indangamirwa, Janvier Karangwa, called on the government to put in place more mechanisms and strategies in order to teach Rwandan culture in primary schools saying it would enable the country have well-brought up youth who know the values of their nation. “Basing on my experience and analysis as a genocide survivor, I believe one of the reasons that led to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsis was that the former Rwandan government did not give proper consideration to our traditional values and culture” Karangwa said. He noted that he believed that it was imperative for the country to restore its culture, saying that it would be useful in increasing unity and reconciliation. The guest of honour, Minister of Sports and Culture, Protais Mitali, said the government was planning to begin teaching parents various aspects of the Rwandan culture and values because they would then be able to teach their children how to become better citizens. “I encourage you as concerned youth to always collaborate with government institutions and other stakeholders to fight against any form of genocide ideology and ethnic divisionism because that’s when we shall achieve total peace and development in the country” Mitali said. During the event, members of Indangamirwa showcased various aspects of Rwandan culture, through dance and music. The troupe was founded in 2007 with 12 members. It has since increased to over 50 members. steven.mugisha@newtimes.co.rw

National

Culture can promote unity – Survivors