- Remembering the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi – Rwanda Observes Kwibuka 31 in Islamabad
Islamabad (Adnan Hameed): The High Commission of the Republic of Rwanda in Pakistan hosted a solemn event to mark Kwibuka 31, the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. The event took place on April 7, 2025, at a local hotel in Islamabad, gathered the diplomats, government officials, members of the Rwandan community and friends of Rwanda.
During the commemoration of Kwibuka 31, Ms Harerimana Fatou expressed her gratitude to all the esteemed guests, including the UN Residence coordinator, Ambassadors, High Commissioners & Government of Pakistan. She reflected on the tragic history of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, which took over 1 million lives. She further emphasized the importance of remembrance & unity, highlighting Rwanda’s remarkable journey of recovery & reconciliation over the past 31 years.
Rwandan High Commissioner paid tribute to the survivors and said that we should never forget to thank President Paul KAGAME & the Patriotic Army of Rwanda for their courageous decision to put an end to the Genocide against the Tutsi. She called on the international community to take a firm stand against hate speech and genocide ideology, stressing that the world must move beyond being just observers and instead take action to prevent such atrocities from recurring.
She concluded by expressing gratitude to the Government of Pakistan and all attendees for standing in solidarity with the Rwandan people and reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to ensuring that the words “Never Again” translate into meaningful global action.
Chief Guest Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Secretary (Africa) at MOFA Pakistan expressed Pakistan’s solidarity with the people of Rwanda and commended the country’s efforts in reconciliation, peacebuilding, and national unity. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to promoting peace, justice, and mutual respect among nations. The event was also graced by UN Chief Coordinator Muhammad YAHYA alongwith diplomatic community, friends of Rwanda and media representatives.