Following 30 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, it is within this context that on Sunday, April 7, 2024, Rwandans and their friends residing in the Netherlands converged at the Rwanda Genocide Memorial in Beatrix Park, Amsterdam.
This memorial is dedicated to the genocide survivors and all Rwandans in general, aiming to ensure that the lessons learned from the tragic events of the past are never forgotten.
The commemoration was attended by over 250 participants, including the Ambassador of Rwanda to the Netherlands, Olivier Nduhungirehe, the Minister of Justice and Security in the Netherlands, Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius, as well as officials from IBUKA-Netherlands.
Other attendees included leaders from the Province of North Holland, Rwandans residing in the Netherlands, representatives from the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals (IRMCT), among others.
Prior to the commencement of the event, all present paid homage to the memory of the genocide victims through a solemn walk to the RAI Exhibition Center.
This event, coupled with the beacon of hope represented by each participant, underscored Rwanda’s resilience and its commitment to ensuring that such atrocities never recur.
Minister Dilan Yeşilgöz-Zegerius praised Rwanda’s remarkable progress over the past 30 years and emphasized the importance of continued cooperation in promoting justice and unity.
She stated, “This commemorative event holds great significance, not only for the Rwandan community but also for the international community at large.”
She acknowledged Rwanda’s efforts towards reconciliation, urging continued efforts towards national unity.
She further stated, “Many of you have lost loved ones and have endured untold suffering, yet you continue to foster unity and embrace the progress of our history. The horrors of genocide may not be easily forgotten, but Rwandans continue to strive for justice.”
Minister Zegerius hailed Rwanda’s progress, highlighting its exemplary justice system and commitment to development. She remarked, “Rwanda stands as a beacon of hope for the world today. Despite the challenges we have faced, Rwanda has chosen to forge ahead, fostering unity among its citizens.”
Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe expressed gratitude for the Netherlands’ ongoing support for Rwanda’s development and underscored the importance of remembering the genocide’s history.
He stated, “This is a global day of remembrance and reflection on the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. We must continue to confront and reject those who deny the truth and seek to rewrite history.”
“These memorials are not only a tribute but also a solemn reminder. Our task is to prevent such atrocities from ever occurring again and to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”
Ambassador Nduhungirehe emphasized that this collaboration would continue, and that the Dutch government would continue to work alongside Rwanda to pursue and prosecute perpetrators of genocide.
PHOTOS by IGIHE
