Bridging Histories: Reflections from Rwandan and South African youth on 30 years of resilience and reckoning

Thirty years ago, two pivotal events reshaped the African continent: the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda and the dawn of democracy in South Africa. These historical milestones, though starkly different—one a profound tragedy and the other a triumphant transition—share a common timeline and have deeply influenced the discourse on human rights, justice, and reconciliation. Now, three decades later, the youth of both nations carry forward these legacies, poised to shape their futures through the lens of their shared past. ALSO READ: Facts about Habyarimana's role in planning, implementing 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi The Rwandan perspective For young Rwandans, the genocide against the Tutsi, in 1994, is an ever-present shadow, a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of hatred and division. This dark chapter in our history serves as a warning and a call to action, compelling us to ensure that such atrocities never repeat. A poignant poem recited by Rwandan youth during the recent Kwibuka 30 commemorations captures this sentiment: Rwanda, my beloved country, One people. One language, one culture We are a family, Why did your people kill your own people? These lines not only question the past but also echo the confusion and grief that continue to influence our generation. The poem further explores the internal conflict many of us feel: Having mixed feelings about being able to survive and leaving others behind is a disaster in my mind. This verse lays bare the psychological turmoil that accompanies our remembrance—survivor's guilt that intertwines with our resolve to forge a different future, one where peace and unity prevail. ALSO READ: No Genocide happens without a plan, preparation, state involvement – Rwandan envoy Consequences for youth The consequences of the 1994 genocide are profound and multifaceted for us. They extend beyond the immediate loss of life and into the very fabric of our future potentials and societal structures. Many of us grow up in the shadows of lost family members, with gaps in our family trees and holes in our hearts that may never fully heal. Living with this legacy means we carry a burden of memory and a responsibility to act. It compels us to confront difficult truths about human nature and the complexities of forgiveness and reconciliation. The genocide has taught us the critical importance of vigilance against hate speech and intolerance in all forms. It underscores the need for a strong moral compass in both personal and public spheres. The scars of the genocide are still visible in our communities, but so too are the seeds of renewal and reconciliation. Parallel journeys in South Africa Similarly, South Africa's youth carry the weight of a complex legacy—years of resistance against systemic apartheid. As they celebrate three decades of democracy, they, like their Rwandan counterparts, are charged with the responsibility of translating the lessons of their tumultuous history into the foundations of a society that truly embodies the democratic ideals for which countless lives were laid down. Deputy Minister Ms. Dlamini Mashego recently encapsulated this shared sentiment at the Kwibuka 30 commemoration, noting: The genocide against the Tutsi coincides with South Africa's 30 years of democracy and justice. We are forever mindful that with freedom comes a responsibility to work for peace, justice, and human rights everywhere. This statement not only underscores the synchronicity of these historical milestones but also emphasizes a collective duty that transcends national borders. It challenges us to confront and rectify the injustices of the past and to forge paths towards societies where justice, equality, and human rights are not merely lofty ideals, but tangible realities embedded in the fabric of everyday life. A unified call to action As we honor those we lost and celebrate the unity and recovery we have achieved, we reach out in solidarity to our peers in South Africa. Together, we have the power to lead a global movement against genocide denial and to champion the pivotal role of human rights education. Our shared efforts can transform lofty ideals of justice and reconciliation into tangible outcomes. Therefore, it is important to acknowledge past injustices, foster dialogue, and build bridges across divides to create a more inclusive and harmonious society. In his Kwibuka 30 speech, the High Commissioner of Rwanda to South Africa, His Excellency Emmanuel Hategeka, reminds us of our vital role: You are the architects of our future, equipped with the lessons of our past and the innovations of today. Embrace your role as custodians of our history and as pioneers of a new generation of Nd’Umunyarwanda defined by unity, dignity, and respect. Your energy and vision are essential as we strive to build a society that stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. Conclusion The scars of the past are still visible in our communities, but so too are the seeds of renewal and reconciliation. As the youth of Rwanda and South Africa continue to build on the legacies of our distinct yet parallel histories, let us reaffirm our commitment to the principles of justice, peace, and human dignity. Together, let's ensure that never again and freedom for all are more than slogans—they are the foundations of our actions and policies. Together, let us remember, unite, and renew. Together, let us remember, unite, and renew. The author is a clinical pharmacology student, in South Africa, passionate about human rights and youth engagement in shaping political and social narratives.

Opinions

Bridging Histories: Reflections from Rwandan and South African youth on 30 years of resilience and reckoning