RWANDAN PEACEKEEPERS UNDER MINUSCA AND BILATERAL FORCES MARK THE 32ND COMMEMORATION OF THE 1994 GENOCIDE AGAINST THE TUTSI

Rwandan peacekeepers serving under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), in Bangui, Bria, and Bossembele, alongside Rwanda bilateral forces, today marked the 32nd Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

The commemoration was held in Bangui, Bria, and Bossembélé base camps, and was attended by Rwandan Contingents' Commanders, officers, and other ranks, MINUSCA staff, as well as Central African Government officials, including the Secretary-General of the Fertit Region, Mr. Magloire Balepoed.

In his remarks, on behalf of the Central African Republic Government, Mr. Magloire Balepoed said that remembrance is a powerful act that ensures the lives lost during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi are never forgotten and that the truth continues to be passed on from generation to generation.

He also emphasized that the pain of Rwandans is not theirs alone, but a concern for all humanity, serving as a reminder of the tragic consequences of hatred, division, and silence, noting that the commemoration places a shared responsibility on both leaders and citizens to reject all forms of discrimination, stand against incitement to violence, and protect, without exception, the dignity of every human being.

Col Dr Christian Mukwesi, Commander of the Rwanda Level 2 Hospital under MINUSCA in Bria, said that the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi did not begin in April 1994, but was preceded by decades of violence, persecution, and repeated massacres of Tutsi. He noted that on 7 April 1994, the long-prepared genocide was unleashed.

"This painful history gives us a profound responsibility to protect humanity, defend the vulnerable, and ensure that such a tragedy never happens again."

He further stated that the genocide was brought to an end through the courage, discipline, and sacrifice of the Rwandan Patriotic Front Army wing (RPA-Inkotanyi) under the visionary leadership of His Excellency President Paul Kagame, who was then leading the liberation struggle.

The commemoration began with a walk to remember, which serves as a moment of reflection, remembrance, and renewed commitment to the values of peace, unity, and the protection of human dignity.

For the Rwandan peacekeepers deployed in the Central African Republic, the event reaffirmed their dedication to preventing atrocities, safeguarding civilians, and contributing to lasting peace wherever they serve.