This year’s theme, “Remember, Unite, Renew,” invites every Rwandan and friend of Rwanda to reflect, to stand together, and to rebuild — with hope and faith at the center.

As we remember, we pause with compassion for the survivors — the women, men, and children whose lives were forever changed. You carry wounds seen and unseen, yet you walk in strength. In these days of remembrance, may the Word of God be your comfort, your healing, and your peace.

April 7: National commemoration day (Public holiday)

• The national mourning period begins at Kigali Genocide Memorial, where the official ceremony will be held.
• The national flag will fly at half-mast.

• A Walk to Remember will take place from the Parliament to BK Arena, followed by a night vigil.
• Events will be broadcast live on national television and radio.

• In all 30 districts, ceremonies will occur at district memorial centres or other chosen sites.
• In villages, MINUBUMWE will coordinate discussions and share a message of the day.

• All ceremonies will conclude by midday to allow essential services and daily life to resume.

Biblical comfort:

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." – Psalm 34:18
To every grieving heart, know this: God is near. He is not far from your pain. He binds the wounds of the broken and gives rest to the weary.

April 8–13: Commemoration Week

• Activities will continue nationwide, coordinated by local authorities.
• April 10: A lecture for foreign diplomats and youth will take place.

• April 11: In Kicukiro District, a “Walk to Remember” begins at IPRC Kicukiro and ends with an evening ceremony at Nyanza Genocide Memorial.
• April 13: An event at Rebero Genocide Memorial will honour politicians who opposed the genocide.
Everyday activities such as business and sports will continue, reminding us of Rwanda’s unbreakable spirit.

Biblical comfort:

"To all who mourn... He will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair." – Isaiah 61:3

Survivors, from your sorrow, God brings beauty. Your story is not only one of tragedy — it is also one of triumph.
April 8 – July 3: Nationwide commemoration activities

Throughout the three-month period:

• Public and private institutions will organize commemoration events.
• Each institution will host a speaker to discuss the history and lessons of the genocide.

• In schools, committees will be formed to:
o Organize a day of remembrance
o Visit memorial sites
o Host educational sessions once students return from holiday

A typical event may include:
• One minute of silence
• A prayer led by a religious representative

• A welcoming speech
• A discussion on the genocide

• A commemorative poem or song
• A survivor’s testimony

Events will be kept under three hours, focusing on reflection and learning.

Biblical comfort:
"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary." – Isaiah 40:31

Rwanda, your journey is not in vain. You are soaring again — not because the pain disappeared, but because God lifted you from the valley.

Words of faith and hope
As we enter Kwibuka 31, let these scriptures breathe life into our hearts:
• “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4
• “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” – Psalm 30:5

• “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3

To the survivors:
You are loved. You are honored. You are not forgotten. May God continue to be your refuge and strength.
To Rwanda:
You have risen from the ashes. Keep walking in unity, clothed in grace, and guided by truth.
Kwibuka 31 — Twibuka twiyubaka, with the healing Word of God.

Never again. Not in our land. Not in our hearts. Not in our future.

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” – John 1:5