On 7 April, the UNAMID Rwanda Community joined the rest of the world in commemorating the 22nd anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsis in Rwanda that took place in their country in 1994. History has proved that this genocide was not only one of the most shocking and unimaginable acts committed by man but also the fastest and most vicious genocide recorded in human history.

To ensure that the world does not forget and does not allow such a genocide to recur, the United Nations General assembly designated 07 April, the day the 1994 genocide started in Rwanda, as the International Day of Reflection on the Genocide in Rwanda.

In UNAMID, the commemorative event, held under the theme: “Fighting Genocide Ideology”, was held in El Fasher, North Darfur. The event, attended by over 400 guests including UNAMID military, police and civilian staff included a procession that preceded a solemn observance whose highlight was the candle light ceremony symbolizing remembrance and the resilience of Rwandans.

UNAMID Force Commander, Lt. Gen. Frank Mushyo Kamanzi, a Rwanda national, read the UN Secretary General’s statement of the Day which emphasized that the commemoration should bring into sharp focus the need to ensure that such atrocities never happen again. “Honouring the victims in Rwanda means working for justice and accountability. We must promote inclusion and dialogue and also respect the rule of law at all times in order to achieve peace and security” he emphasized. Force Commander Kamanzi also commended the UN for its effort in working for justice and accountability by arresting and handing over fugitives. “This is one way to end impunity,” he added.