Rwanda is set to mark Kwibuka 32 next week, the 32nd commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, under the theme: “Remember, Unite, Renew.”
The annual commemoration, which begins on April 7, 2026, serves as a solemn period to honour the victims, support survivors, and reflect on the country’s remarkable journey of recovery and unity.
Speaking in Harare on Wednesday, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, James Musoni, briefed the media on preparations for the event and highlighted the global significance of Kwibuka.
He noted that the commemoration is internationally recognised, with endorsement from bodies such as the United Nations and the African Union.
“This is an international affair,” Musoni said. “April 7 marks Rwanda’s 32nd commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It is a time to honour the victims, comfort survivors, and pay tribute to those who stopped the genocide and liberated the country.”
April 7 ,the day the mass killings began in 1994 is officially observed globally as the International Day of Reflection on the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
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In the aftermath of the genocide, Rwanda faced the immense challenge of rebuilding a nation devastated by the loss of over one million lives, destroyed infrastructure, and widespread displacement. The country also grappled with the task of restoring unity among deeply traumatised communities.
Also addressing the media, Edward Kallon, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator of the United Nations, underscored Rwanda’s progress since 1994.
Despite the near-total collapse of state institutions, he said, Rwanda has achieved significant recovery through deliberate and strategic national policies.
“The key message is ‘Remember, Unite, Renew,’” Kallon said. “Kwibuka promotes reconciliation by strengthening relationships within communities, while ‘Renew’ speaks to resilience and transformation. It reflects Rwanda’s journey from a broken state to a developing nation.”
He emphasised that Rwanda remains committed to ensuring that the atrocities of 1994 are never repeated, anchoring its development on unity, accountability, and long-term stability.
As Kwibuka 32 approaches, Rwanda and the world pauses once again to remember, to unite, and to renew a shared commitment to humanity.