After the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi, unity and reconciliation became imperative to laying down the foundations for peace and sustainable development in Rwanda. It is the only option for peace that Rwanda chose to undertake after the discriminatory and divisive politics that plunged the country into wars and the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi.
In celebration of the International Day of Peace 2019, youth in peacebuilding and other peace actors including members of Parliament, Never Again Rwanda, the National Unity and Reconciliation Commission (NURC) and United Nations Development Program (UNDP) convened at the parliament to celebrate Peace and 25 years of unity and reconciliation in Rwanda. This event brought together both the young and older generation to share success stories in healing and reconciliation, under the theme: “Carry the light”.
The light talked about here, is the light hope, love, peace, unity and reconciliation. While this gathering aimed to reflect and celebrate the progress Rwandans have made in rebuilding the social fabric through unity and reconciliation, it also emphasized the need of youth commitment to upholding that legacy.
A diverse group of panelists shared their healing experiences; the several wounds they suffered, as well as lessons they learnt from the past. Kamayirese Carine, who survived the genocide, was one of them. She stressed the importance of talking to the youth about the genocide: “Discussing the bitter past of genocide and its consequences with the youth, is not to scare them but to warn them against hatred and divisive ethnicities, exclusion and violence, so that genocide never happens again.” Hakizimana Patrick who took part in the genocide when he was a youth, also urged young people to think critically and avoid blindly following, to avoid a life marked by regrets, guilt, shame and many other negative consequences.
The success stories of unity and reconciliation that were shared, demonstrated inner strength and resilience of Rwandans, in uniting and reconciling despite their wounds and trauma from the bitter and divisive past. Additionally, the lessons shared therein hinged on the obligation all Rwandans have to “Carry the Light”, uphold the Rwandan identity and dignity, and foster unity, peace and development.
Twenty-five years have now elapsed after Rwanda has embarked on the process of Unity and Reconciliation. This light that we have seen through tireless efforts of the Government of Rwanda and in particular the Unity and Reconciliation Commission, ought to be continued by all Rwandans, especially the young generation. Youth being the strength and hope of the country, ought to be positive agents of peace, unity and development, through actively engaging in peace building and decision-making processes as well as development programs, to contribute towards socio-economic transformation.
This event was funded by GIZ Rwanda.