Rwanda Marks 31 Years Since the Genocide Against the Tutsi with a Night of Remembrance and Memorial Walk
BY WIIiIWALK
april 8, 2025
photo by shema potraits
On the night of April 7, 2025, Rwanda officially began the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, a tragic period in which over one million Tutsi were killed in just 100 days. This marked the first night of the national mourning period, known as Icyunamo, which begins every year on April 7. This emotional evening was observed with two major events: the emotional “Night of Remembrance” at BK Arena, and the symbolic “Walk to Remember”, which took place just before the evening program.
photo by shema potraits
Earlier in the day, ahead of the official commemoration, thousands of Rwandans gathered to take part in the Walk to Remember. The walk began at the Gasabo District headquarters in Kimihurura (Gishushu) and ended at BK Arena, where was held the main remembrance ceremony. One of the most remarkable aspects of this year’s walk was the overwhelming participation of young people. More youth showed up than any other group, demonstrating strong engagement in national memory and the responsibility of keeping the past alive for future generations.
photo by shema potraits
The event was also attended by many public figures, including celebrities and professionals from Rwanda’s entertainment industry—musicians, actors, influencers, and media personalities—who joined the walk in a show of unity and support.
photo by shema potraits
Before the walk began, participants gathered at the Gasabo District offices for a moving activity called “Share Your Kwibuka Message”. This initiative allowed people to write and share messages to the victims—more than a million Tutsi who were killed simply because of who they were. Many of these messages expressed personal reflections and promises never to forget, and a commitment to make sure such tragedy never happens again.
photo by shema potraits
High-ranking officials, journalists, and key figures in the creative and public sectors, making it a moment of both national and personal reflection, attended this segment.
photo by shema potraits
The Walk to Remember is more than a march—it is a living lesson in resilience, unity, and responsibility. It brings together Rwandans of all backgrounds, especially the youth, to learn from history, stand against division, and commit to peacebuilding.
photo by shema potraits
At BK Arena, the Night of Remembrance brought together those who had participated in the walk and many others from across Rwanda and abroad. It was a moment of national silence, reflection, and unity.
One of the most powerful parts of the night was when President Paul Kagame lit the Flame of Hope, a symbolic act that shows that even in the darkest moments, there is always light, strength, and the possibility to rebuild. This tradition inspires courage among survivors and the new generation, encouraging the nation to continue moving forward.
photo by shema potraits
The program also included a touching testimony from a survivor of the Genocide against the Tutsi. Their personal story deeply moved those in attendance, reminding everyone of the real human pain behind the statistics. It was a call to compassion, awareness, and ongoing action.
photo by shema potraits
According to a national census carried out by the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC) between 2000 and 2002, 1,074,017 Tutsi were killed during the Genocide, which lasted from April to July 1994. The report, released in 2004, included:
– The victims’ names and ages
– Their home locations
– In some cases, details on how they were killed
These numbers may continue to evolve as more remains are still being discovered across different parts of the country. Each new finding brings more clarity and responsibility to remember those who were lost.
photo by shema potraits
As with every year, nations around the world joined Rwanda in remembrance. International organizations, embassies, and foreign communities shared messages of support, standing in solidarity with Rwandans as they remembered their loved ones.This year’s theme was once again a powerful call to action: “KWIBUKA 31 – REMEMBER. UNITE. RENEW”
– REMEMBER the lives lost and the stories that must never be forgotten.
– UNITE as Rwandans and as global citizens, building bridges across differences.
– RENEW our shared commitment to peace, resilience, and a future built on dignity and truth.
photo by shema potraits
The night of April 7, 2025, was a deeply emotional and meaningful beginning to the 31st commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi. From the Walk to Remember to the Night of Remembrance, the country came together not just to mourn, but to celebrate strength, unity, and a continued journey of healing.
As Rwanda remembers its past, it also stands tall in its commitment to a peaceful, inclusive, and united future.
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