April 11, 2025
The 31st anniversary of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda was commemorated on Monday (April 7) at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa under the theme “Remember, Unite, Renew.”
The occasion brought together officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, the African Union Commission, members of the diplomatic corps, religious institutions, international organizations, academic institutions, and the Rwandan community in Addis Ababa.
In her address, the State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, emphasized that such commemorations are not only about remembering the innocent people who lost their lives in the genocide but also about recognizing the strength and resilience of the people of Rwanda. Ambassador Birtukan underscored Rwanda’s remarkable transformation from a terrible genocide to becoming a beacon of forgiveness and national reconstruction. The state minister further stressed the importance of redoubling efforts to prevent genocide, hate speech, discrimination, and all forms of violence that threaten our shared humanity.
Stating the significance of rule of law, justice, and equity in representing the guarantee of social peace and peaceful coexistence among communities, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Ali Yusuf, stressed the vital need for the African Union to take proactive measures to prevent such atrocities from occurring in the future.
Speaking at the commemoration ceremony, Rwandan Ambassador to Ethiopia Charles Karamba recognized Ethiopia’s significant role in promoting peace and stability in the aftermath of the genocide.
This commemorative program featured prayers led by representatives of various religious communities, a candlelight vigil, and a moment of silence in memory of the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
Since 2010, April 7 has been observed as Rwandan Genocide Remembrance Day by the African Union through various programs seeking to continuously awaken greater awareness of the African peoples and the international community about the value of life and humanity and to renew our collective commitment to protect and uphold fundamental human rights.