President Kagame, First Lady lead 100 days of remembrance for Tutsi genocide

The ceremony was held at the Kigali Genocide Memorial on Gisozi Hill, where more than 250,000 victims from across the city are buried.

The event began with the laying of flowers on graves and paying respects to those resting at the memorial. President Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame led the ceremony, joined by Philbert Gakwenzire, president of IBUKA, and Hon. Alphonsine Mukamugema, representing AVEGA Agahozo.

Following the flower-laying, the president and first lady lit a “light of hope,” symbolizing the beginning of the 100-day commemoration period, a tradition that encourages reflection and remembrance.

April 7 is observed annually in Rwanda and around the world as a day to honor the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. During this period, Rwandans are encouraged to participate in remembrance activities, including memorial visits, discussions, and educational programs broadcast via radio, television, and social media.

The commemoration week will feature national and community-level events, including the “Walk to Remember,” candlelight vigils, and gatherings at memorials across the country, culminating on April 13 at the Rebero Genocide Memorial.