The official Genocide commemoration week came to an end, yesterday, but for many, especially the survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, it is just the beginning of a very important period of remembering and honouring their loved ones.

It does not mean that since the national mourning week has officially closed, it should be back to business as usual.

We need to remain close to the Genocide survivors, especially the vulnerable ones, through these hard times, at least for the entire 100 days, the number of days the Genocide lasted.

And, care for those aging survivors, especially the ones that lost everyone in the Genocide (Incike), should transcend the three-month period; let’s always be by their side. We should not leave those in communal homes entirely in the hands of caregivers; each one of us can help put a smile on their faces.

Everyone should take time off to reach out to them, even if it means just spending some time with them, that’s probably what they need most.

Most importantly, we must all stand up for the truth about the Genocide against the Tutsi and the circumstances around it by actively challenging Genocide deniers wherever they may be, and ensure that the ‘Never Again’ pledge becomes a reality.