As Rwanda begins the commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, athletes have weighed in to pay tributes to over a million victims killed 29 years ago and shared messages of solidarity with the survivors.

Here is what they had to say as Rwandans and friend of Rwanda begin the commemoration week:

Emile Galoise Kazeneza, basketball player

This is a good time to reflect and learn from the past so that we don&039;t let history repeat itself.

I urge the youth and my friends to take the lead in fighting those who still have and want to spread genocide ideology because they only want to take us back to the past nobody wants to witness anymore.

Eugene Eric Murangwa, former Amavubi player

Today, we remember our loved ones not just for what they did but because of who they were. Our fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, friends and neighbours were victims of senseless violence, discrimination and oppression. Their lives mattered, they were important and we honour their memory.

Salma Mukansanga, Rwandan international football referee

As we commemorate the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, it is indeed the right time to reflect on depth of the hatred that destroyed and brought this county to darkness. It’s our sole responsibility as Rwandan youth to build genocide-free Rwanda.

Emery Bayisenge, football player

I join my fellow Rwandans to commemorate the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Commemoration is not just a ritual but it is paying tribute to our loved ones who died during the Genocide.

Jimmy Gatete, former Amavubi player

On the 29th anniversary of the genocide against the Tutsi, let us remember the lives lost and strive for a peaceful world. Let us create a society where everyone can coexist in harmony, irrespective of their differences. May we never forget the atrocities committed.

Salomon Nirisarike, football player

Dear youth, especially sports personalities, we need to remember those we lost – dying because of how they were born. Commemoration should give us strength and zeal to work and build ourselves as we fight against any form of Genocide ideology, so that no genocide happens anymore in Rwanda or in the world.