The event took place in Istanbul on June 27, as part of the 100-day commemoration period. Participants reflected on the roots of the Genocide against the Tutsi and discussed the role of young people in ensuring that such atrocities never happen again.

The gathering brought together Rwandans from different professional backgrounds living in Istanbul. It began with welcoming remarks delivered by Nshuti Aime Benjamin, the leader of the Rwandan community in the city.

During an interactive discussion, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Lt Gen (Rtd) Charles Kayonga, spoke about other genocides that have occurred throughout world history and highlighted the unique nature of the Genocide against the Tutsi, its origins, ways to eradicate its ideology, and the critical role of youth in that effort.

Young participants were reminded that the roots of genocide include hatred, ethnic discrimination, injustice, and governance based on exclusionary policies. They were encouraged to understand these issues thoroughly so that they can contribute to combating the remnants of genocidal ideology.

Amb. Kayonga also noted that individuals who oppose Rwanda or seek to deny or trivialize the Genocide against the Tutsi, whether Rwandans or foreigners, are often driven by their own interests rather than concern for Rwanda’s history and suffering.

He urged the youth to actively promote and strengthen national unity at all levels through awareness campaigns against hatred, genocide ideology, genocide denial, and genocide minimization.

In his closing remarks, Amb. Kayonga encouraged young people not to remain bystanders but to use their knowledge, talents, and energy to contribute to Rwanda’s development and to building a society free from genocide ideology.

He further called on them to seek historical truth and deepen their understanding of Rwanda’s past in order to uphold the principle of “Never Again.”

Participants also exchanged views on how genocide ideology had become entrenched within various state institutions, including the former national army, which ultimately played a major role in the execution of the Genocide against the Tutsi.

The discussion further highlighted the dedication, courage, and sacrifices of the Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA) in stopping the genocide and its contribution to rebuilding the country in the years that followed.

Faustin Rutayisire, the representative of the Rwandan community in Türkiye, thanked all those who attended the commemoration evening.

He noted that their participation reflects a strong desire to understand history and offers hope that unity among Rwandans will help turn “Never Again” into a lived reality, with unity serving as the bond that brings all Rwandans together.

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