Kwibuka: Remembering the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda
Learn about how we remember the innocent lives taken during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi
From 7th April to July 1994, Hutu extremists of the regime in power in Rwanda carried out a genocide in which more than one million Tutsi were killed.
The genocide was single handedly stopped by the Rwandan Patriotic Front/ Army.
Kwibuka - Remember
The 7th April of each year marks the beginning of the national mourning period that lasts 100 days and it is described as the annual commemoration day of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
By remembering, the memory of the lives taken is honoured.
Flame of remembranceRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
The 7th April is also an International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Kwibuka provides an opportunity for reflection, healing and unity as the nation comes together to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated.
The night of remembering by Kwibuka RwandaRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Mourning in Rwandan Culture
When someone passes away, a mourning period of 8 days Kwirabura starts to pay tribute to the deceased. Many people come to the deceased's home for comfort and support. At night they build a bonfire while celebrating the deceased's life.
Remember - Kwibuka by Kwibuka RwandaRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Mourning week
From the 7th to 13th April, it is a mourning week where activities related to commemoration are organized. Rwandans and international citizens gather together with candles lighted as a symbol of hope that Genocide will not happen in Rwanda and elsewhere.
The night of remembering by Kwibuka RwandaRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Remember, Unite, Renew
Rwanda has had a long but successful journey of reconciliation and nation building.
Rwanda’s spirit has been restored by the resilience of its people and the strength of survivors.
Ijoro ryo kwibuka - Night of remembering by Kwibuka RwandaRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
The people of Rwanda are working together for the brighter future they deserve. They have a vision of hope, dignity and prosperity for their country.
Rwanda shows that reconciliation through shared human values is possible.
Bisesero Genocide Memorial site by Kwibuka RwandaRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Genocide Memorial Sites and the culture of remembrance
There are around 250 national and district genocide memorial sites around the country.
They are resting places for thousands of genocide victims.
The genocide memorial sites are also places of remembrance and learning to ensure that it never happens again.
Content contributors: Chantal Umuhoza & Yvette Tuyishime
Curatorial Layout: Chantal Umuhoza
Photography: OGS
