Genocide rooted in ideology, says Dr Bizimana in Bugesera

By The Inspirer.

The Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Jean Damascène Bizimana, has said that the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi was rooted in long-standing divisive political ideology that was systematically promoted over many years.

He made the remarks on April 14, 2026, while joining residents of Bugesera District in the 32nd commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, where more than 3,000 victims were killed at Rebero Hill in Mayange Sector and surrounding areas.

Dr Bizimana said the genocide was enabled by state-led policies that institutionalized division and hatred, arguing that such ideology laid the foundation for the 1994 atrocities.

He stressed that genocide is not an accident or spontaneous occurrence, but a planned political project that is taught and sustained over time.

“Genocide is not an accident; it is a planned process rooted in ideology that is taught and implemented over many years. It is not defined by numbers, but by intent to destroy a group because of identity,” he said.

He added that the process leading to the genocide began in 1990 and culminated in 1994, which is internationally recognized as the peak period of the atrocities.

Dr Bizimana also called on parents to raise children with values of patriotism, unity, and integrity, while ensuring they understand Rwanda’s history to prevent the recurrence of genocide ideology.

He warned against continued transmission of hatred and division within families, saying it harms future generations and undermines national unity.

Bugesera District Mayor Richard Mutabazi commended the courage of genocide victims who resisted during the killings and pledged continued efforts to preserve their memory and legacy.