On Sunday, March 7, 2024, the Embassy of Rwanda in the Kingdom of Morocco, in collaboration with Rwandans residing in Morocco and their friends, commemorated the 30th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
The event took place at the National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco, located in the capital city Rabat, and was attended by diverse participants including over 300 guests, comprising officials from various institutions in the country, representatives from their respective countries, members of civil society, Rwandan students in Morocco, Moroccan nationals, and friends of Rwanda.
The commemoration began with a Walk to remember where participants took part in a symbolic walk around the library’s premises. Following the walk, they were guided through an exhibition featuring photographs depicting the journey of Rwanda’s commemoration and reconciliation.
Participants also observed a moment of silence in remembrance of the victims, followed by a message of remembrance delivered by the Rwandan Ambassador. Ambassador Shakilla K. Umutoni expressed gratitude to the Rwandan community for joining in remembering the millions of Tutsi who lost their lives during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
She emphasized the significance of commemorating the 30th anniversary, as it marks three decades since the Genocide against the Tutsi, which was halted by the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) under the leadership of President Paul Kagame.
Ambassador Umutoni commended Rwanda’s commendable leadership, led by President Kagame, for fostering unity among Rwandans as a cornerstone of the country’s progress. She also addressed Rwanda’s resilience in the face of challenges such as genocide ideology and denial, evident in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where leaders have incited violence against Congolese Tutsis.
In his remarks, Mr. Fouad Yazough, Senior Official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of the Kingdom of Morocco, praised Morocco’s partnership with Rwanda during this time of commemoration, commending Rwanda’s efforts to unite its people after the Genocide against the Tutsi, and highlighted the importance of fostering strong bilateral relations between Rwanda and Morocco.
The commemoration event also included survivor testimonies, as well as documentaries on the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi and the journey of reconciliation.
