At what age should children learn about the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi?

As we commemorate the 19th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, some children are not aware of our history. Society Magazine’s Martin Bishop and Doreen Umutesi asked a few people about the right age to talk to kids about the gruesome incident of 1994.

Thursday, April 11, 2013
Andres Iranzi

As we commemorate the 19th anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, some children are not aware of our history. Society Magazine’s Martin Bishop and Doreen Umutesi asked a few people about the right age to talk to kids about the gruesome incident of 1994.I think children above 15 are old enough to understand. Below 15 would be a waste of time because they will not fully understand the incident.Andres Iranzi, ElectricianI believe you can talk to children in different ways. Explain to them a little bit of what happened and assure them that it will never happen again.Abdul Makanyaga, MusicianAs soon as they start asking questions, possibly around the age of six. As a parent you have to find ways of telling them without traumatising them.Mike Karengera, BusinessmanI would talk to a child around the age of six because they see what goes on during commemoration and at this age they ask questions all the time.Denis Ndarishinze, studentI started hearing stories about the Genocide at the age of twelve. I think it’s the right age to educate your children about it.Jay Uwimana, Beautician I think it’s different for every child. If you really know your kids, you will know when they are ready.Francis Zahabu, Fashion designerI’ve been teaching my daughter about it all along. If I remember correctly, I started when she was about three.Adele Giramata, VCT KimisagaraIn my own opinion, a parent can talk to their children about the Genocide at the age of ten.  Iman Rwaka Jafar