The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI) held a solemn evening of commemoration on Friday, April 21, to honor former staff members killed during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
Over 800 MINAGRI employees fell victim to the Genocide, a tragic loss that still reverberates within the institution today.
The commemorative event, held at MINAGRI headquarters, was attended by high-ranking officials, stakeholders, representatives from embassies, as well as families and friends of the fallen former Ministry staff.
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The atmosphere was somber as the attendees gathered to pay their respects and remember the lives lost.
Ildephonse Musafiri, the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, expressed deep sorrow over the senseless loss of bright minds who had dedicated their lives to ensuring food security for the people of Rwanda.
"The contributions of all the staff killed will never be forgotten," he said,.
"Their hard work was the foundation upon which we have built this institution. We remain committed to continuing their legacy and developing the agriculture sector."
Musafiri emphasized the unwavering support of the agriculture sector for the youth of Rwanda, recognizing them as the driving force behind the country&039;s transformation.
"True change comes from working together as one," he added, inspiring the young generation to actively participate in shaping the future of Rwanda.
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Bishop John Rucyahana delivered a moving speech, reflecting on the devastating impact of the genocide, which was fueled by divisions among Rwandans due to bad governance.
He expressed gratitude to the children of Rwanda, including those in the RPF-Inkotanyi, for their role in stopping the Genocide and rebuilding the country.
Laurent Ndagijimana, a representative from Ibuka, urged everyone to remember the victims of the genocide by their names, emphasizing that each life lost is more than just a statistic.
He also emphasized the importance of documenting history, while acknowledging the efforts of many institutions in this regard.
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Christiane Twamugize, a survivor and former staff member at MINAGRI, shared her harrowing experience during the Genocide.
She recounted how their own colleagues, with whom they had worked for years, turned against them, resulting in a shocking betrayal.
During the evening of commemoration, different government officials, members of civil society, members of the diplomatic corps, and families, paid their respects lighting candles of hope and laying wreaths on the Memorial site located inside MINAGRI headquarters.