Minister Dr. Bizimana highlights educators’ role in teaching Genocide history
The Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr. Jean Damascene Bizimana, on Monday evening attended a public discussion on “Umurage w’Urubyiruko – Part One”, authored by Mukagasana Yolande, held at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
The book aims to educate Rwandans particularly the youth on the country’s history, with a strong focus on the origins, execution, and consequences of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The discussion gave young participants a platform to reflect on the meaning of Ndi Umunyarwanda, reaffirm their commitment to unity, and express determination to follow the example of the youth of the RPF-Inkotanyi, whose sacrifice helped stop the Genocide and preserve national cohesion.
Speaking at the event, Minister Dr. Bizimana praised Mukagasana Yolande’s courage and resilience, noting that despite losing her husband and all her children during the Genocide, she chose to document Rwanda’s history to educate future generations.
The Minister Bizimana emphasized the critical role of educators in safeguarding historical truth, warning against genocide denial and distortion. He said:
“It is essential for educators to understand all the tactics used by those who trivialize and deny the Genocide against the Tutsi, including individuals who falsely claim to be survivors, as well as those who present themselves as human rights defenders while seeking to conceal the role their parents played in the Genocide.”
He further reminded participants that genocide ideology was rooted in divisive narratives that stripped some Rwandans of their identity and falsely portrayed others as the sole rightful owners of the country an ideology that was later entrenched in governance and social systems, ultimately leading to the Genocide against the Tutsi.
The Minister Bizimana also commended Mukagasana Yolande’s humanitarian commitment, particularly her work in rescuing street children, raising them without discrimination, and instilling values of unity, self-worth, and love for the country.
Mukagasana Yolande urged young people to love themselves and their country, stressing that anyone who seeks to destroy the nation is comparable to a child attempting to kill their own mother.
The Minister concluded by urging the public to continue supporting Mukagasana Yolande and other writers whose work contributes to preserving Rwanda’s history and safeguarding national unity for generations to come.


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