Kimironko Residents Work Together to Renovate Memorial Site

Today, I continue my 100 day series remembering the twentieth anniversary of Rwandan genocide. Please join me in prayer for those lives lost and impacted in this tragedy. #NeverAgain. LMH

In the news today are reports of neighbor’s in Rwanda’s Kimironko Sector, Gasabo District coming together to renovate a memorial site which commemorates victims of the 1994 genocide:

Residents of Kimironko Sector, Gasabo District have renovated a memorial site for 1994 Genocide victims in the area after collecting individual contributions worth Rwf12 million.

The memorial site is home to over 25,000 victims from neighbouring cells of Kimironko, Kibagabaga, Kinyinya, Nyarutarama and the nearby Bumbogo Sector.

Francine Niwemugeni, the chairperson of Ibuka, the umbrella organisation for Genocide survivors, in Kimironko Sector, said their decision was largely in memory of Genocide victims.

The Minister for Sports and Culture, Protais Mitali, said the initiative by Kimironko residents was worth emulating as it supplements government efforts in keeping Genocide memorial sites in good condition.

“The government is aiming at having as few Genocide memorial sites as possible for effective renovation. We, therefore, challenge other communities to draw lessons from Kimironko residents and renovate Genocide memorial sites in their areas in honour of the victims,” Mitali said.

He added: “The government is doing everything possible to rebuild the nation, while drawing lessons from the country’s history. Our intention is to show the world that from the ashes, we can still stand firm, ready to face our challenges in rebuilding a united Rwanda.”

Having visited two Genocide Memorials during our time in Rwanda, I know the importance that these places have in hearts of Rwandans. Along with being important resting places for those who perished, they are also critical in the ongoing education that will hopefully help us to avoid future genocide. The fact that these residents would come together and invest in the memorial in their neighborhood speaks to the ongoing need to tell this story, to educate future generations, and to remember the souls of the dead.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.

Read the full article here.