April 26, 1994: Massacre of 20,000 Tutsi in Tambwe Amidst Genocide Targeting Tutsi Population

By The Inspirer.

As the systematic targeting of Tutsis unfolded, April 26 marked a dark chapter in Rwanda’s history with the brutal slaughter of over 20,000 Tutsis in the Tambwe sector of Ruhango district.

Across the country, similar atrocities were being perpetrated, exacerbating the horror of the ongoing genocide.

Taking refuge in communal offices and sacred places like Ruhango Church, the Tutsi victims in Tambwe faced ruthless annihilation, their bodies callously disposed of in nearby papyrus forests and trenches.

In Kigoma sector, 475 Tutsis met a similar fate, originating from regions such as Gahombo, Mukingo, Kiruri, and Ngwa.

Meanwhile, in Huye, a massacre unfolded at the Rwanda Agriculture Research Institute (ISAR Rubona), where Tutsi employees seeking safety were subjected to a relentless onslaught by the Interahamwe militia, aided by law enforcement personnel.

Former Butare governor Sylvain Nsabimana witnessed the aftermath of the carnage, as survivors were relocated to Gakera below Mount Rubona, only to face further attacks on May 2, 1994.

The exact toll at ISAR Rubona remains uncertain, but it is estimated that around 70 staff members and their families perished, with many denied a dignified burial.

In Karongi district, Birambo Catholic Parish and its surroundings witnessed the massacre of over 6,000 Tutsis on April 26, amidst ongoing assaults and widespread looting.

In Kamonyi, at Mugina Catholic Parish, Tutsi individuals valiantly resisted attackers for days but were ultimately overwhelmed and slaughtered on April 26, 1994.

Despite Mayor Callixte Ndagijimana’s efforts to provide assistance, former mayor Onesphore Ngiruwonsanga orchestrated a campaign of starvation and violence against Tutsi refugees, resulting in escalated killings using a variety of weapons against defenseless victims.

SOURCE: THE NEW TIMES

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