Rwandan Police peacekeepers in Haiti were on Tuesday joined by friends of Rwanda in the 21st commemoration event in honour of over one million people killed in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

The commemoration, held at Rwanda Formed Police Unit (RWAFPU) base camp in Jeremie, Grand’Anse Region, started with a Walk to Remember.

The peacekeepers were joined by Haitian government officials and residents, officials from the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH), and delegations from Senegalese and UNPOL peacekeepers, among others.

The commemoration event was dedicated in prayers led by the clergy from the Catholic and Pentecostal churches.

Candles of Hope were lit and held by all participants and a minute of silence observed in remembrance of the Genocide victims.

In his remarks, the Haitian government representative, Saint Louis Rosni, said: "Haiti honours the lives of Rwandans that perished and denounces the tragedy that nearly destroyed Rwanda.”

He wondered why the tragedy happened as the international community looked on.

Commissioner of Police (CP) Bruce Munyambo, Contingent Commander of RWAFPU5 in Haiti, commended the guests for standing with Rwanda in its moment of grief.

"This is 21st commemoration of the Genocide against Tutsi. It is a tragedy considered as the worst horror of modern times. Remembering our beloved ones is, therefore, very important,” he said.

"Rwanda will continue to work closely with the international community to contribute toward world peace and security.”

The commemoration activities also included spiritual hymns from a local choir, Elie Shadai, in remembrance of the Genocide victims.

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