Rwandans and Japanese mark 15 years since devastating Japan earthquake and tsunami

By Prince Boris Cyubahiro.

Rwandans joined Japanese residents in Kigali to commemorate the 15th anniversary of the 2011 earthquake and tsunami that struck eastern Japan, killing over 20,000 people and leaving thousands injured or missing.

The March 11, 2011, disaster included a massive 9.0-magnitude earthquake followed by a tsunami, which triggered a nuclear accident at Fukushima, forcing mass evacuations.

The memorial on March 11, 2026, was organized by the Embassy of Japan in Rwanda, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Japanese NPO TER (Think about Education in Rwanda), which supports vulnerable communities, particularly in education.

The event began with a memorial mass at Chapelle Jésuite Sainte Trinité in Kimironko. Dr. Saidi Rumanzi, Director of NPO TER, said the annual ceremony reflects the enduring bond between Japan and Rwanda, driven by compassion and solidarity.

“The gathering to remember lives lost in Japan’s disaster is a strong sign of love and humanity,” Dr. Rumanzi said, noting the active participation of young students.

JICA Rwanda Director Minako Shiotsuka emphasized Rwanda’s continued support despite the distance, praising the country for honoring the victims.

Embassy Secretary Moriguchi Yuta expressed gratitude for Rwanda’s solidarity during the 2011 disaster, saying, “Rwanda was among the first countries to stand with us, and the Japanese people will never forget this.”