First Lady tasks youth to actively counter Rwanda’s history distortion

First Lady Jeannette Kagame, on June 9, encouraged Rwandan youth to actively fight those who distort the country’s history, and the Genocide in particular.She was speaking at the Igihango cy’Urungano forum that brought together more than 1,000 young people and officials to commemorate the youth killed in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Gisagara District.ALSO READ: Youth urged to read Rwandan history, fight Genocide denialThe forum aims to give youth a space to discuss their role in protecting and sustaining what has been achieved and promoting Ndi Umunyarwanda as an identity they all share.It has been over 10 years since the creation of the forum, and Mrs Kagame requested the attendees to reflect on how far they have come in the process of rebuilding the country, the lessons they have learnt, and how to preserve what has been achieved.“This is a time to reflect on the values and courage that characterised the people who liberated the country and ensure that the slogan ‘Never Again’ becomes a reality,” she said.She gave a message of strength to those who lost their parents, relatives, and friends, and encouraged them to be strong and build their lives in a country that cares about them.In addition, she said: “Reflect on your role in protecting and preserving what has been achieved, and how to use digital platforms to showcase the right picture of our country and the truth of our history.”ALSO READ: Youth commit to use their talent to back fight against genocide denialThe First Lady said the country has achieved so much in terms of justice, peace and security on international scenes, good governance, technology, gender equality, among others.“It is the first time in our history that 29 years have passed on without killings in Rwanda.”While Rwanda is today inhabited by young people who survived the Genocide, those who liberated the country, and some being used as tools to spread the ideology and have actually participated in the Genocide, as well as bystanders, the First Lady emphasised that the youth shouldn’t be held back in the mirror of ethnicity and divisionism.ALSO READ: Youth tipped on genocide ideology and its consequencesOn a similar account, she pointed out that they must use available technologies to access education as a key to development, however, being careful to not be misled by all sorts of information all over the internet.“Youth, you are the promise and unfailing strength of our country. As parents, we wish that in the future you will look back and be joyful for your contributions to preserving the heritage of unity.”

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First Lady tasks youth to actively counter Rwanda’s history distortion