RUSIZI - Rusizi District has laid emphasis on unity and development during the 17th commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi.

The commemoration began in Mibirizi, Gashonga Sector, with a call on residents to help vulnerable survivors.

"During the last commemoration, over 20 heads of cattle were donated to vulnerable survivors in a bid to uplift them. This heart of togetherness is what we want to maintain in the rest of Rusizi,” said Francoise Nirere, Vice Mayor in charge of Social Affairs.

The district, in collaboration with hospitals and health centres, has put in place strong measures to help trauma victims during the period.

Discussions about the Genocide and the way forward will be held in schools, cells, prisons and "Travaux d’Interêts Générales” (TIG) sites.

The talks will principally cover healing, unity and restoring dignity, 17 years after the Genocide.

Mibirizi was chosen as the venue for the launch of the commemoration because more than 15,000 victims were laid to rest there. Mibirizi Sector also registers the highest number of Genocide widows and orphans.

The district plans to build another memorial site probably towards the end of the 100 days of commemoration.

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