Canada observed the 30th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, on April 7, honouring the lives lost and reflecting on the journey of reconciliation and unity. The commemoration brought together members of the Rwandan community, government officials, diplomats, and friends of Rwanda in Ottawa.
ALSO READ: Genocide cannot be mentioned in isolation, without adding the targeted group
The day began with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Reconciliation and Peacekeeping Monument where people gathered to pay respect to the more than one million victims of the genocide against the Tutsi. This was followed by a "Walk to Remember" symbolizing solidarity and remembrance as participants walked from Parliament Hill to the convention Shaw Centre.
During the live stream commemoration ceremony, attendees observed moments of silence and participated in a candle lighting ceremony, reflecting on the tragic events of 1994.
ALSO READ: Kwibuka 30 in Denmark: Rwandans, diplomats commemorate Genocide
Rwanda’s High Commissioner Prosper Higiro addressed the audience, emphasizing the importance of learning from history and preventing future genocides. He highlighted Rwanda's transformational journey and called on the new generation to sustain the legacy of strength, reconciliation, and unity.
The ceremony also featured messages of solidarity from Mayor Mark Sutcliffe of Ottawa who acknowledged the lasting impact of hatred in parts of the world. He commended survivor associations like Humura Association, Ibuka Canada, Page Rwanda, and the Memory Keepers Association, along with the Rwanda High Commission, for preserving the memory of lives lost during the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi. On behalf of Ottawa City Council and residents, Mayor Sutcliffe declared April 7 as a day of remembrance for the Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
Member of Parliament Pam Damoff, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, shared a message of solidarity with the Rwandan community, recounting her visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial and reaffirming Canada’s support for Rwanda.
Representing the Government of Canada, Honorable Mona Fortier conveyed a message of solidarity from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Chico Kirenga, a survivor of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, shared a testimony of the tragic events that claimed his family members. He dedicated his survival to those who helped him and his sister, offering hope for the future.
ALSO READ: Major universities in US to host Genocide commemoration events
Leo Kabalisa, the President of Ibuka Canada, Bertin Muhizi, the President of the oldest survivor association, and Pascal Kanyemera, the President of Humura Association, each shared messages and initiatives from their respective associations.
The ceremony concluded with messages from Maj Gen Greg Smith, a senior Canadian military officer, followed by virtual remarks from Gen Romeo Dallaire and Honorable Irwin Cotler. Dallaire, a retired Canadian military officer, was the force commander of UNAMIR, a United Nations peacekeeping force for Rwanda in 1994 when the Genocide against the Tutsi unfolded.
There were musical performances by Impangare troop, singing hymns dedicated to Kwibuka, to accompany the commemorative event.
The Peace Tower on Parliament Hill was lit in the colors of the Rwandan flag from sunset until 11:00 PM, symbolizing Canada's support and solidarity with Rwanda during Kwibuka 30.