On 16th July, Hungary’s President Katalin Novák visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial to pay respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The tour began with a laying of wreaths on the burial place where 250,000 victims of the genocide are laid to rest. President Novák was then guided through the museum, learning about the history of the Genocide, from the colonial roots of ethnic division through to the horrors of the killings. She also had the opportunity to learn about efforts by Rwandans to rebuild and reconcile, and the work of the Aegis Trust in developing peace education at the Kigali Genocide Memorial which is now built into Rwanda’s national schools curriculum.
Among Government officials accompanying President Novák on this visit were Rwanda’s Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Hon. Dr Jean Damascene Bizimana together with Rwanda’s Minister of the Environment, Hon. Dr Jeanne D’Arc Mujawamariya.
Concluding the visit, President Novák left the following message in the memorial guest book: “I am deeply touched, but also inspired to see that after such horrifying atrocities Rwanda has found atonement and reconciliation. We Hungarians share your commitment to peace and peaceful coexistence. Lest we forget. You cannot understand the present and future of Rwanda without being confronted with its past. Thank you!”
Photos of President Novák’s visit can be viewed here:
