FC Blankenberge winger Alain Pierre Kiganahe has admitted that the story of the Genocide against the Tutsi which claimed over a million lives in a space of 100 days, touched his heart.
Kiganahe, 22, was born in Bruxelles, Belgium to Rwandan parents. He has, however, never been to Rwanda, with his recent attempt to visit the country halted by the Covid-19 situation that hit the world since March 2020.
The youngster, born eight years after the Genocide, is one of many Rwandan children born out of the country growing hungry to visit the country, having learnt, from his parents and history, about what the tragic times that the country went through three decades ago.
"I personally find it very harmful what happened during that time and I’m grieved for those who have lost families or friends during that time and I hope that we won’t experience such thing ever again and we, Rwandans, will continue to stay together," Kiganahe told Times Sport.
"I was born in Bruxelles and I grew up here. I was about to go to Rwanda but I never managed to go unfortunately because of COVID but I hope to be there soon."
As observes the 30th anniversary of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, he urged Rwandans to stay united and join hands to build the nation of their dream.
Kiganahe holds allegiances that allow him to play for Belgium or Rwanda but he has not player for either country yet at any level. He admits his choice will pretty be influenced by the roots of his parents who are both Rwandese.
The player told Times Sport that he would like to represent Rwanda if an opportunity comes.
"If the chance comes, I want to feature for Rwanda and also give my best for my country," he said.
Kiganahe has played for clubs including ASV Geel, SK Londerzeel, FCA Darmstadt, Alki Oroklini and now he is at FC Blankenberge in the Belgian lower tier.