Members of IBUKA, an umbrella organisation for Genocide survivors, in Musanze District have appealed for renovation of memorial sites in the area, saying most of them are in a sorry state. They cited Muhoza memorial site in the city of Musanze which they said doesn’t meet the standards of a memorial site as remains of victims were piled in a disorderly manner. The site in Muhoza sector, hosts remains of over 800 victims who were killed at the former Supreme Court’s Chambers in the former Ruhengeri prefecture and in other neighbouring areas. ‘‘The memorial site looks old and dilapidated, there is need for concerned institutions to renovate them in order to honor the victims, survivors said. “The Muhoza memorial site is in a very poor state and needs urgent renovation, our fallen kin deserve respect,” said Pierre Rwasibo, the Ibuka president in Musanze District. “The memorial site has been in a poor state for long …the history of Genocide in our area needs to be safeguarded.” Rosette Mukagatana, another survivor, said, “It is a pity that the memorial site, which hosts remains of our loved one is in dilapidated, they deserve a befitting resting place,” Jean Claude Musabyimana, the Musanze District mayor, acknowledged that the memorial is in poor state, but said authorities would meet after the mourning week to chart the way forward. We shall decide whether to renovate the memorial site or relocate it to another place, said Musabyimana. He said the district is committed to ensuring memorial sites are in good condition and had availed funds to help take care of the sites. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
