Nyanza: 41 Genocide victims laid to rest in dignified burial

By Prince Boris Cyubahiro.

The remains of 41 victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi were laid to rest in dignity in Nyanza District, as residents were urged to strengthen unity and intensify efforts against genocide ideology and its persistence.

The burial ceremony took place at the Nyanza Genocide Memorial Site, where remains recovered from Busasamana, Kigoma, Rwabicuma and Cyabakamyi sectors were interred.

Of the remains buried, 34 were relocated from improper burial sites, while seven were newly discovered within the district.

Nyanza District Acting Mayor Kajyambere Patrick extended condolences to bereaved families, while urging those still keeping victims’ remains in homes or non-designated sites to hand them over for dignified burial.

He said transferring remains to official memorial sites helps preserve genocide evidence and ensures the dignity of victims.

Speaking on behalf of bereaved families, Karerangabo Samuel expressed gratitude to the liberation forces for stopping the Genocide against the Tutsi, pledging continued commitment to their legacy.

IBUKA Commissioner Bayingana Janvier said many survivors continue to struggle with emotional distress linked to the long delay in recovering and burying their loved ones, more than three decades after the genocide.

He also raised concern over ongoing genocide denial and distortion of history, saying it continues to affect survivors’ healing process.

Senator Nyirasafari Espérance said it remains painful that some families are still unable to recover remains of their relatives, noting that some victims were dumped in rivers and other inaccessible areas.

She urged survivors to find strength in coping with unresolved loss, stressing that not all victims may ever be recovered.

She emphasized that while recovery efforts continue, survivors should not be consumed by grief but focus on rebuilding their lives and contributing to national development.

Nyirasafari also called on Rwandans to deepen love for the country and work toward its progress, noting the strong bond shared through a difficult history.