Youth Urged to Reject Genocide Hatred and Build Unity

Speaking at a youth dialogue titled “Youth, Know Your History,” Dr. Bizimana said some children of perpetrators feel ashamed of their lineage and falsely claim to be genocide survivors, using this narrative to downplay atrocities and justify their parents’ actions.

“Being born to a killer is heavy for some, and they struggle with the crimes of their parents. But fighting an evil you did not commit is wrong,” he said. “Youth should focus on Rwanda’s vision of coexistence, love, peace, and unity—and guide their parents to embrace it.”

Dr. Bizimana traced Rwanda’s divisions to colonial rule, which labeled the king a Tutsi and sowed ethnic separation that ultimately contributed to the genocide. He noted that while national unity has progressed, some elders still transmit ethnic biases to their children, causing confusion among the youth.

The dialogue, organized by the Ministry in partnership with Vision Jeunesse Nouvelle, drew about 350 participants from Karongi, Rusizi, and Nyamagabe districts. Attendees included former members of armed groups, motorcycle and bicycle taxi riders, small-scale cross-border traders, artisans, fishermen, and tea workers.

Dr. Bizimana’s remarks reinforce Rwanda’s efforts to cultivate unity and peace, urging the next generation to reject inherited hatred and actively contribute to a shared national identity.