Rwanda commemorates genocide

Rwanda is set to mark the sixth consecutive event of 'Our Past', an initiative aimed at educating the country's youth, mostly under 25 years old, about the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. The event takes place during the commemoration week of the genocide, which falls between the 7th and 14th of April each year. Christian Intwari, the coordinator of 'Our Past', recently sat down for an interview with CNBC Africa to shed light on the significance of the event. In the interview, Intwari emphasized the importance of effective communication when sharing historical information with the younger generation. He noted that traditional methods like Powerpoint presentations may not always resonate with young people. Instead, 'Our Past' employs interactive mediums such as music, theater, and drama to engage the audience and ensure they pay attention to the message being conveyed. One of the key issues highlighted by Intwari is the emotional barrier that some older individuals face when discussing the genocide with the youth. He mentioned that many survivors tend to focus on their personal losses and struggles, rather than providing a comprehensive understanding of the events that led to the genocide. Intwari stressed the need for a more holistic approach to storytelling, including discussions on the root causes and historical context of the genocide. Over the years, 'Our Past' has witnessed significant growth and engagement from the community. What initially started with 400 attendees has now expanded to between 1,500 and 2,000 participants. Despite facing initial challenges in securing sponsorships, the event has stayed true to its mission of educating and supporting genocide survivors. The initiative has provided assistance to survivor villages by donating food, clothes, and even initiating projects like chicken farming to help sustain their livelihoods. In a bid to further support survivors, 'Our Past' embarked on a project to renovate and innovate the aging homes of genocide survivors. Intwari highlighted the success of this initiative, with 100% completion of the first phase, showcasing the commitment of the organization to making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by the genocide. On the national level, 'Our Past' stands out as a unique event organized by and for the youth, contributing to the country's efforts in promoting education and remembrance of the genocide. The initiative has garnered support from various institutions and has seen participation from youth across Rwanda, as well as international students from universities in Canada and China. The synergy between 'Our Past' and national educational policies underscores the importance of grassroots initiatives in fostering a better understanding of Rwanda's history among the younger generation. By creating a platform for open dialogue and engaging storytelling, 'Our Past' continues to play a vital role in shaping the narrative of the country's past and ensuring that the memory of the genocide remains alive in the hearts and minds of Rwandans.