In a solemn ceremony held on May 4th at Nyanza Genocide Memorial, management and staff of Rwanda Ultimate Golf Club (RUGC) paid their respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Over 50 staff members laid wreaths on a mass grave, a final resting place for over 105,000 victims.
Following the tour of the memorial garden, the group convened for a solemn evening of commemoration featuring testimony from a survivor and discussions on supporting the country’s development agenda and healing process.
In a powerful act of remembrance, Hodali Marie Rose, a survivor of Nyanza-Kicukiro, shared her harrowing testimony.
Hodali’s voice trembled as she recounted the years of genocidal pronouncements that hung heavy in the air, a chilling prelude to the slaughter. Hodali lamented the international community’s failure to strengthen UNAMIR’s mandate, leaving them powerless to shield innocent Tutsi from the impending violence.
Following Hodali’s moving testimony, Girishuti Alain, Chairman of RUGC Kigali, took the stage. Girishuti powerfully acknowledged the resilience and courage displayed by the people of Rwanda as they tirelessly worked to rebuild their nation, serving as an inspiration for others.
He underscored the critical need to address the twin challenges of development and confronting genocide denial. Girishuti emphasized that as Rwanda progresses, it must never forget its past.
He urged Rwandans to regularly reflect on their history and actively combat genocide ideology and social injustice.
“He concluded by urging everyone to be active participants in combating evil and fostering social justice. By harnessing the power of remembrance and the resilience of survivors, we can build a future free from such atrocities. He specifically called upon the youth to remain committed to learning and understanding the nation’s history, recognizing its significance in shaping a brighter tomorrow.” He added.
Josue Dushimana, the CEO of RUGC, echoed the call to action. He urged the RUGC team to not only reflect on Rwanda’s past but to actively combat genocide ideology and social injustice through educational initiatives or community outreach programs.
He underscored the vital role Rwandan youth play in carrying the torch of remembrance and ensuring that Rwanda’s story of genocide is never forgotten.
“Every individual in our society holds the power to combat evil and stand against injustice. The resilience of survivors is a testament to God’s grace, as we commemorate this day. RUGC aligns closely with government efforts to establish mechanisms that ensure such atrocities never happen again, empowering youth as catalysts for positive change.
The peace we have had in the last 30 years is important to us as a company. Our country’s good leadership enables us to contribute to its development, unity, and a promising future without violence.
This commitment includes actively opposing any form of divisionism that could threaten our society and lead us back to past tragedies,” he said.
Naphtal Ahishakiye, the Executive Secretary of Ibuka, commended RUGC’s dedication to remembering the genocide’s victims and supporting survivors in any way possible. He described it as a powerful symbol of resilience.
Ahishakiye then issued a powerful call to action. He urged all institutions, both those established before and after the genocide, to actively participate in commemoration efforts and ensure the memory of the victims is never forgotten.
“Let’s stand together as we build our history and ensure that the tragedies of the past will never repeat themselves. We must remain vigilant to combat those who seek to distort our history and deny the Genocide,” he added.
Ikirezi Justine, a staff member at RUGC, raised a critical concern. She pointed out the significant presence of young Rwandans working in hospitality who frequently interact with foreign visitors. Unfortunately, Justine noted, these visitors sometimes misrepresent Rwanda’s history, particularly regarding the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Ikirezi Justine’s concerns were echoed by Dusabe Mutesa Jules, another RUGC employee. He emphasized the importance of ongoing learning. Justine acknowledged the progress made in reconstruction, but stressed the need to learn together how to combat those who spread genocide ideology.
Further Jules highlighted the significance of remembrance itself. He emphasized that it serves not just as a way to honor the victims, but also as a tool for introspection. By remembering, he argued, young Rwandans can confront the root causes of the genocide and its lasting effects. This introspection, he concluded, is vital to ensure such atrocities never happen again.
Jule concluded his remarks with a powerful call to action. He stressed that fighting genocide ideology is not just the responsibility of institutions or organizations, but of every single Rwandan. He urged everyone to use the lessons of history as a weapon against those who deny the genocide.
