Over 250 attendees gathered at the Tanglin Club to honour the memory of the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and to reflect on the importance of remembrance and resilience.
Singapore, 7 April 2025 – The 31st Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, also known as Kwibuka 31, was solemnly observed at the Tanglin Club Theatrette. The event was held in collaboration with the Tanglin Club and brought together over 250 individuals, including members of the diplomatic corps, the Rwandan community in Singapore, and friends of Rwanda.
His Excellency Jean De Dieu Uwihanganye, High Commissioner of Rwanda to Singapore, delivered an address, highlighting the lasting pain caused not only by the genocide itself but by the international community’s failure to prevent it.
“Beyond being one of the most devastating human tragedies of the 20th century, what is even more painful is that this horrific massacre could have been prevented. But the international community’s indifference allowed this genocide to drag on until RPA Inkotanyi stopped it,” said High Commissioner Uwihanganye.
The commemorative programme also included a panel discussion that gave voice to survivors of the genocide. Panellists included Grace Kansayisa and Pacifique Mukaseti, both of whom offered moving testimonies of their experiences during the 1994 atrocities. They were joined by second-generation survivor Leslie I. Sheja, who contributed insights on the challenges and responsibilities of preserving memory across generations. The discussion was moderated by Kevin Gin, whose guidance brought sensitivity and depth to the dialogue.
The commemoration forms part of the global Kwibuka (meaning “to remember” in Kinyarwanda) initiative, which annually gathers communities worldwide to honour the memory of over one million lives lost during the genocide and to reaffirm a collective commitment to unity, reconciliation, and the prevention of future atrocities.
Attendees were also invited to observe a candle-lighting ceremony and a moment of silence, symbolising both mourning and the enduring hope for peace and justice. The event served not only as a memorial but also as a platform for reflection, learning, and the reinforcement of global solidarity with Rwanda.
Source: Rwanda High Commission in Singapore
