On Saturday, May 3, 2025, Rwandans and their friends living in Tenneessee and surrounding areas gathered for the #Kwibuka31 ceremony to commemorate the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

The ceremony began with walk to remember between Knoxville convention center and the university of Knoxville, the ceremony started with prayers by Pastor Evaliste and a welcoming speech by President Bahati Kalisa, who emphasized that This year marks the Kwibuka 31 of the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. “Remember, Unite, and Renew” On this Day, we honor those who were murdered and reflect on the suffering and resilience of those who survived. 

A minute of silence was observed to remember and bow to the innocent victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi, Nadia Ingabire gave a powerful testimony on how she survived, and how her family were killed. Pastor Emmanuel offered messages of comfort and hope. The Participants watched the movie that shows the plan and execution of Genocide against the Tutsi.

Closing remarks delivered by the President of the Community, Mr. Bahati Kalisa “Rwanda has been in a healing and reconciliation process as a nation. Promoting unity and reconciliation, especially in societies divided along ethnic, racial, religious or any other basis is paramount in building the next generation of Africans. Lastly, I cannot conclude without paying tribute to the strength and the resilience of the Survivors of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. The Strength, Courage and Patience and forgiving of Survivors have hugely contributed for the rebuilding of Rwanda.