Clerics are urged to learn from the failures that their predecessors who sowed hatred and divisionism during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, so that they can use their position to foster unity, reconciliation and resilience among Rwandans.

The call was made on April 6, by Rabagirana Ministries, a Christian non-profit organization known for promoting unity, reconciliation and community transformation.

"Since the majority of Rwanda’s population in 1994 were Christians, religious leaders had significant influence on their congregations and the wider community. Unfortunately, many of them failed to use this influence to stop the preparation of the genocide,” said pastor Joseph Nyamutera, Rabagirana Ministries’ founder.

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He noted that there is a big role that religious leaders must play in healing the wounds, promoting unity, peace and reconciliation among Rwandans.

Nyamutera called upon the clergy to not ignore the reality of the history of Rwanda.

"Religious and church leaders should teach the true history of the Genocide against the Tutsi and tell the truth about what happened to both genocide perpetrators, and the survivors. It would make people heal their wounds and ask for forgiveness,” he noted.

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He added that religious leaders have a great responsibility to support survivors during this time of difficulty where they reflect on the loss they suffered during the Genocide.

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