The Promise of a Generation: Rwanda's Youth Standing for Unity and Truth
Kigali-On April 25, 2025, over 2,000 young Rwandans gathered at the Intare Conference Arena for a transformative event titled ‘Igihango cy’Urungano – The Promise of A Generation,’ commemorating the youth lost in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. With a message of unity and resilience, First Lady Mrs. Jeannette Kagame addressed the youth, urging them to safeguard Rwanda’s future by embracing the truth of their history and combating genocide ideology. The event was not just a remembrance, but a powerful call to action for the next generation to continue building a nation grounded in peace, unity, and progress.
The sound of silence echoed in the Intare Conference Arena on April 25, 2025. The room was filled with over 2,000 young people from across Rwanda, gathered together for a powerful and poignant event to commemorate those lost in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The event, ‘Igihango cy’Urungano – The Promise of A Generation,’ was an occasion for the youth to reflect on the past and envision the future, a chance to discuss the role they must play in combating genocide ideology and shaping the country's transformation.
Her Excellency, First Lady Mrs. Jeannette Kagame, took to the stage with a message of unity, resilience, and hope. She began by acknowledging the significance of the day—31 years since the horrific genocide—and the importance of remembering the youth who perished. “We do not only remember today,” she said. “Our loved ones live on in our hearts, and Rwanda is reborn.”
Her speech was one of strength, calling on the youth to hold on to the truth of their history, emphasizing that genocide denial must never be tolerated. “Jenoside was not an illness or a sudden disaster,” she declared. “It was a calculated plan, carried out systematically, and it began with words that dehumanized a people, creating a foundation for hate.”
The First Lady's words were a stark reminder of the power of ideology and the responsibility of the youth to safeguard the future. She spoke candidly about the dangers of misinformation, especially in the age of social media. “You are surrounded by many voices, some claiming to speak for Rwanda. But not all of them wish us well,” she warned. “It is up to you to discern the truth, to understand the consequences of embracing lies.”
As she spoke, the crowd listened intently. The youth understood the urgency of the message. They were not just passive recipients of history—they were active participants in shaping a new future for Rwanda, a future grounded in unity, truth, and progress.
The First Lady encouraged them to stand firm in their identity as Rwandans. “In the face of adversity, it is your choices that will define our nation. Will you choose peace, or will you allow divisive forces to tear us apart again?” she asked.
Her words resonated deeply with the young attendees, many of whom had been born after the genocide and now found themselves tasked with carrying the torch of remembrance and reconciliation. Her challenge was clear: to safeguard the values of unity and to continue the work of building a country that cherishes its diversity while honoring its painful past.
As the event concluded, the youth of Rwanda left with a renewed sense of purpose. They understood that their generation held the power to shape the destiny of their nation. With determination, they would fight against genocide ideology, uphold the truth of their history, and honor the memories of those who had given everything for the Rwanda they now called home.
