Cardinal Kambanda Urges Rwandans to Unite Against Genocide Ideology
He emphasized that commemorating the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi should be a time for religious institutions to reflect and ensure such deviation from moral and spiritual values never happens again.
Cardinal Kambanda made these remarks during the 31st commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, in a ceremony organized to remember staff members of the Bible Society of Rwanda who were killed during the genocide.
In his message, he stated:
“To remember is to constantly examine ourselves within our religious institutions to ensure such deviation never returns, and to reaffirm our brotherhood.”
He underscored the role of God’s word as a guiding light for unity:
“For us who preach the word of God, Scripture is the light that enables us to build unity, so that what happened never occurs again. We are fortunate that our country rose again after the genocide.”
He reiterated the importance of national unity in fighting genocide ideology:
“Every Rwandan, wherever they are, must denounce genocide ideology and instead uphold positive values that align with God’s word.”
Augustin Kayiranga, a genocide survivor originally from the former Kacyiru sector in Nyarugenge Commune, shared his harrowing journey during the genocide. He expressed gratitude to the Government of National Unity for supporting survivors in rebuilding their lives.
“Today I have a wife and five children. They’ve received a good education some are now working in the USA and Canada. I myself am living a decent life, and I thank God and our government for that.”
Claude Runihangabo, one of the speakers at the event, urged Christians to take part in transforming mindsets and defending their nation.
“As Rwandans and as Christians, we share in both suffering and healing. Let us unite and continue the fight to change mindsets, protect our country, and confront the consequences of our historical legacy.”
Gasabo District Executive Secretary, Bernard Bayasese, also addressed the audience. He emphasized that during the commemoration, it is important to both condemn those who participated in the genocide and to recognize the role religious institutions play in national reconstruction.
“We acknowledge the contribution of religious institutions in promoting unity and resilience. Let us safeguard these values and strive to be exemplary in conduct and action.”
He added:
“We, as religious leaders, bear a great responsibility to continue educating our followers about national unity and resilience as pillars of lasting justice.”
During the ceremony, the Bible Society of Rwanda remembered its staff members who were killed in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. These included Thomas Kitoko Karangwa (Treasurer), Pastor Alphonse Nkurunziza (Board Member responsible for Bible interpretation), Pastor Amon Iyamuremye (Board Member), and Theogene Kanamugire (former Secretary General of the Bible Society of Rwanda).
