University students lead march to commemorate genocide victims

NYAGATARE – Umutara Polytechnic University Students under their genocide survivors’ umbrella organization (A.E.R.G Umutara Polytechnic), on Wednesday, led a peaceful march to commemorate the sixteenth anniversary of the genocide against Tutsi in Nyagatare district. Led by the students, the district staff and residents of Nyagatare district, the march begun at Nyagatare town round about and found its way to Muvumba River, where hundreds of genocide victims were killed and their bodies dumped during genocide. There after, the ceremony was led by a moment of silence and prayers from different heads of the clergy before the district mayor and other delegates laid wreaths along the river banks in honour of all those who were killed. From the riverbanks the march continued towards Umutara Polytechnic University play ground where different speeches were delivered. Speaking at the occasion, Bosco Rwiririza, IBUKA representative in Nyagatare district thanked the government for helping genocide survivors especially in helping them to get shelter and education. He however added that many survivors still faced various form of challenges. ‘Genocide survivors are still struggling to get medical treatment in Nyagatare district. Even the lists of those who are entitled to medical treatment is no where to be seen. It is a serious issue that need to be solved thoroughly. If this year’s commemoration theme tells us to fight trauma, then how would a genocide survivor then not be traumatized if he is denied medical treatment?’ he asked. In his speech, the district mayor assured survivors that their challenges would be resolved but urged those tasked with selecting needy genocide survivors to be more vigilant. Ends