Historic Kwibuka30 Commemoration Held in Pretoria
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PRETORIA, South Africa – The Rwandan High Commission in Pretoria in collaboration with the Rwandan community in South Africa on Friday commemorated the 30th anniversary of the infamous 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The solemn commemoration was held at the CSIR Convention Centre in South Africa’s capital, Pretoria, under the theme “Remember, Unite, Renew”.
Distinguished guests included Dlamini Mashego, South Africa’s deputy minister of International Relations and Cooperation, and prominent figures from the United Nations, 47 members from diplomatic corps including ambassadors and representatives. The commemorations were also attended by 350 members of the Rwandan community in Gauteng province.
On behalf of her government, Mashego offered heartfelt remarks, aligning with the themes of justice and human rights.
“As we reflect on the lessons of the Genocide against the Tutsi, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of justice and reconciliation. Let us continue to provide assistance and support the survivors of the genocide and their families. Let us work tirelessly to build a world where every individual can live free from fear of persecution or violence,” Mashego said.
“The genocide against the Tutsi coincides with the South Africa’s 30 years of democracy and justice.
We are forever mindful that with freedom comes a responsibility to work for peace, justice, and human rights everywhere. We will continuously strive to uphold this duty, not just for ourselves, but for all people everywhere.”
The Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, The Ambassador of Eritrea, Salih Omar, said lessons must be drawn from past events.
“It is imperative that we derive lessons from historical events and implement tangible measures to ensure that similar acts of violence and cruelty be avoided in the future to address genocide,” Omar said.
On his part, United Nations information director, Masimba Tafirenyika, delivered a message of support from the United Nations Secretary General: “Let’s pledge to stand as one against all forms of hate and discrimination”.
“Let’s ensure that acts that began on the 7th of April 1994 are never forgotten and never repeated anywhere.”
In his moving address, the High Commissioner of Rwanda, Emmanuel Hategeka, underscored the significance of international solidarity in Rwanda’s journey of recovery and growth post the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
“Your solidarity has been crucial in Rwanda’s transformation from the ashes of genocide to a capable, safe, and thriving nation. Our partnerships, built on shared values and respect, should be nurtured to achieve our shared goals of development, peace, and stability on a global scale.”
High Commissioner Hategeka praised South Africa for being among the first that came to assist Rwanda at its greatest hour of need.
Hategeka called for a deeper and sincere reflection.
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30th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda (Kwibuka30)
“Today, as we stand united in remembrance, a pressing question looms before us: Why do our pledges of ‘never again’ falter when action is most needed?”
He pointed out the global inconsistency in addressing genocide denial, a phenomenon widely recognised as the final stage of genocide.
“Despite the clear understanding that genocide denial perpetuates the cycle of violence, why does it remain unchecked by law?”
He also highlighted the gap between international declarations and actionable commitments.
“This glaring inaction starkly challenges the authenticity of our global commitment. Are we merely content with words, or are we prepared to enact the necessary laws?”
Hategeka called for a shift from rhetoric to action, urging the establishment of stringent legal frameworks that criminalise genocide denial.
“Our moral duty demands robust legal frameworks. Let us not merely echo principles; let us enact and enforce them,” he implored, urging the international community to transform solemn commitments into concrete legal measures to truly honor the mantra of ‘never again.’”
The commemoration featured a signing of the Book of Remembrance, a symbolic act demonstrating a collective pledge to the principle of ‘never again’. A photography session captured the unity and commitment of those present.
As the High Commission concluded the event, it expressed profound thanks to all participants and attendees for their presence and support. It reiterated the importance of education, remembrance, and continued collaboration to build a future where humanity and dignity prevail.
