Karongi: 83 Genocide victims laid to rest during Kwibuka32 ceremony

By The Inspirer.

Survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Karongi District have paid tribute to the role of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi) in stopping the genocide, while commending President Paul Kagame for preventing acts of revenge during the liberation struggle.

The remarks were made during the 32nd commemoration of the genocide held at Mubuga, formerly part of Kibuye Prefecture, where 83 victims were laid to rest with dignity. The remains include recently discovered bodies as well as others reburied from previously undignified sites.

Speaking on behalf of the victims’ families, Sesonga Félix said Tutsi residents of Mubuga were killed in successive waves leading up to and during the 1994 genocide, describing it as a systematically planned campaign of extermination.

He urged families of perpetrators to acknowledge the truth, warning that genocide ideology remains a continuing threat if left unchallenged.

The Chairperson of Ibuka in Karongi, Ngarambe Vedaste, who served in the Inkotanyi forces during the liberation struggle, shared a personal account of restraint during the final days of the genocide. He said that despite encountering individuals involved in the killing of his family while armed, he refrained from revenge, citing strict orders from the RPF leadership.

He emphasized that forgiveness and discipline played a key role in preventing further cycles of violence during and after the genocide.

Karongi District Mayor Muzungu Gerald linked the genocide to colonial-era divisions that were later reinforced by successive regimes, noting their lasting impact on society.

He also warned against the persistence of genocide ideology, citing recent incidents where some individuals reportedly celebrated violence in neighboring areas, stressing the need for continued vigilance.

Western Province Governor Ntibitura Jean Bosco called on residents with information on unburied or undiscovered genocide victims to come forward so they can receive dignified burial, saying this remains essential for healing and reconciliation.

The Mubuga Genocide Memorial now holds 10,174 remains, following the burial of the newly discovered 83 victims.