Doha, Qatar – Today, Qatar stood in solidarity with Rwanda to honor the memory of the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Leaders, Heads of Institutions, Heads of Missions, and esteemed guests, including His Excellency Mr. Ibrahim Yousef Fakhro, Director of Protocol Department, and His Excellency Mr. Mubarak Mohammed Al Khalifa, Assistant Director of the African Affairs Department, and other dignitaries joined The Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to the State of Qatar, Mr. Igor Marara and the Rwandan Community in Qatar to remember more than one million lives lost during this tragic chapter of history.

On 7 April 1994, a genocide was unleashed against the Tutsi minority of Rwanda, leaving over a million dead in just 100 days, in full view of the world. A minimal United Nations peacekeeping force stood by and watched the genocide unfold, after a decision was made by the Security Council to withdraw most of the peacekeepers.

"Kwibuka," meaning 'to remember' in Kinyarwanda, encapsulates the essence of this commemoration. During the event, the attendees took a minute of silence, followed by the symbolic act of lighting the flame of hope, reminiscent of the spirit of renewal that emerged from the ashes of tragedy. This yearʼs historic commemoration is an opportunity for Rwandans and the rest of the world to honor victims, comfort survivors, and reflect on Rwandaʼs journey of recovery, reconciliation, and resilience, with national unity at the core of the countryʼs stability and progress.

In his remarks, Ambassador Igor Marara emphasized the importance of collective action in combating genocide ideologies. He stated, "As we reflect on the lessons learned from our past, we believe that fighting genocide ideologies of any form is a battle humanity should never stop fighting. We renew our commitment to actively cooperate with all stakeholders, promoting regional and international peace and security."

Malaika Uwamahoro, a Rwandan-born actress, poet and singer together with her team took center stage at the event, with an incredible performance taking the audience through Rwanda's journey. Furthermore, Gloriosa Uwimpuhwe, a survivor of the 1994 Genocide Against Tutsi, courageously shared her testimony during the event where she highlighted the pivotal role of unity in Rwanda's post-genocide development.

The event also featured an exhibition that served as a learning journey for participants. It provided insights into how the genocide against Tutsi was prepared and executed, its profound impact, and Rwanda's remarkable journey of perseverance.