The values of unity and reconciliation that have guided Rwanda’s remarkable recovery following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi serve as a powerful example to the world. This was highlighted by H.E. Sheikh Shakhboot Bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State in the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as he joined over 400 attendees, including members of the diplomatic corps, friends of Rwanda, and Rwandans living in the UAE for the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. 

Sharing his message of solidarity at the event held on April 7 in Abu Dhabi, H.E. Sheikh Shakhboot said, "We are with survivors who continue to carry the weight of unspeakable trauma. We stand with them in remembrance, sympathy and solidarity. The values of unity and reconciliation which have guided Rwanda’s remarkable recovery serve as a powerful example for us all."

In his remarks, John Mirenge, Rwandan Ambassador to the UAE reflected on the root causes of the genocide, the significance of remembrance, the resilience of survivors, and the spirit of renewal that has defined Rwanda’s post-genocide journey under the visionary leadership. 

"We honor the over one million lives that were brutally taken during the genocide against the Tutsi. We must remember, for these were not just numbers. Each life lost was someone with dreams, ambitions, and a future. We also stand together in support of the survivors, to whom we feel deeply indebted and grateful. Despite unimaginable horrors and losses, they chose forgiveness and helped lay the foundation for our unity and reconciliation,” said Ambassador John Mirenge.

He added: “Rwanda has chosen the path of unity and resilience, building our new nation on three main pillars of Unity, Accountability and Thinking Big. Our efforts in reconciliation, rebuilding and national unity have indeed paid off. Today, Rwanda stands as a beacon of hope and prosperity.”

The Ambassador also underscored the continued importance of combating genocide ideology and denial. “We carry the solemn responsibility of preserving our history, safeguarding the progress we have made, and ensuring that the horrors of the past never return. As a global community, we must stand united in rejecting genocide denial, holding accountable those responsible, and ensuring that justice prevails. Only through truth, justice, and remembrance can we truly honor genocide victims and protect future generations.”

Held under the theme, “Remember – Unite – Renew,” the commemoration period began on April 7 and will continue for 100 days.