Kwibuka 32: Remember, Unite, Renew—Together

On April 7th, Rwanda began Kwibuka 32—a 100-day period of remembrance marking 32 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

“Kwibuka” means to remember. But in Rwanda, it is far more than remembrance. It is a time to honor the lives lost, stand with survivors, and recommit to a future where such a tragedy never happens again. It is also a powerful global call—reminding all of us that remembrance is not optional. It is through remembering that we confront the consequences of hatred, choose unity over division, and take responsibility for building a more compassionate world.

During this sacred time, our team at GIFTS Rwanda has had the privilege of walking alongside the community in Rugalika in meaningful and deeply moving ways.

On Thursday, April 9th, university students, boarding secondary school students, and parent representatives participated in Umuganda, Rwanda’s monthly community service day. Together, they gathered at a former quarry site—one that holds a painful history. During the genocide, many victims’ bodies were thrown there. Today, after the remains have been given a dignified burial, the site is being developed into a memorial.

It was in this context that GIFTS Rwanda joined the residents of Rugalika to help prepare the site. Working side by side with our students, we created space not only for physical restoration, but for deeper understanding. These moments help the next generation learn their history and strengthen their commitment to ensuring that such a tragedy is never repeated. We are honored to share photos of the work being done with you.

​Following the community work, our university students shared a heartfelt letter expressing their gratitude to GIFTS Rwanda. They spoke about the role education is playing in shaping their futures—giving them hope, opportunity, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Here is a copy of the letter:

Then on Friday, April 10, 2026, the spirit of remembrance turned into a powerful act of compassion. Students visited the family of Nsanzumuhire Jean Bosco, a survivor of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, accompanied by local leaders from Nyarubuye Cell in Rugalika Sector.

The visit was deeply emotional. The family was overwhelmed with gratitude—the woman moved to tears as she shared that it was the first time she had ever been visited with such love and care. In that moment, remembrance became action. Presence became healing.

They expressed their heartfelt thanks to GIFTS Rwanda for being a true source of support and hope for the residents of Nyarubuye. In return, we made a promise: that we will continue to visit, to walk alongside them, and that they can now consider GIFTS Rwanda as family.

Here are photos from the visit and the items provided to the family from GIFTS Rwanda.

This is the impact of your support.

Because of you, remembrance is not just something we speak about—it is something we live out. It is seen in students who are being educated, empowered, and shaped into leaders of a more unified future. It is felt in families who are reminded that they are not alone.

As we continue through these 100 days of Kwibuka, we invite you to reflect with us, to remember with us, and to stand with Rwanda in honoring the past while building a better future.

Thank you for being part of this work—for your compassion, your generosity, and your commitment to lasting change.

P.S. Kwibuka reminds us that remembrance is not only Rwanda’s responsibility—it belongs to all of us. During these 100 days of Kwibuka, I invite you to take a moment to remember alongside Rwanda—and to reflect on the role each of us can play in building a more compassionate and unified world. Thank you for choosing to stand on the side of hope, dignity, and humanity.