The solemn event took place in Mwima, Nyanza District, where Queen Gicanda is buried.

The event was preceded by a memorial Mass held in remembrance of Rwanda’s last queen, bringing together her family, friends, and officials from various institutions. The group, led by Minister Bizimana, later proceeded to Mwima Hill, where they laid wreaths at her final resting place and offered prayers in her honour.

Queen Rosalie Gicanda, the widow of King Mutara III Rudahigwa, was tragically killed on April 20, 1994, just weeks into the Genocide. Revered for her humility and quiet dignity, she remains a powerful symbol of resilience and national identity. Her killing marked one of the many painful losses Rwanda endured during the Genocide.

This year’s commemoration is part of the broader 100-day national mourning period honouring more than one million lives lost in 1994.

Jean Damascene Bizimana, Rwanda’s Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, on Sunday, April 20, joined members of the family and other officials to commemorate the life of Queen Rosalie Gicanda, 31 years after she was killed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

The solemn event took place in Mwima, Nyanza District, where Queen Gicanda is buried. Minister Bizimana and attendees laid wreaths at her final resting place and observed a moment of silence in her honour.