Minister Patrice Mugenzi cautioned residents of Ngororero district about the dangers of genocide ideology, which plunged Rwanda into one of the darkest chapters in its history—the Genocide Against the Tutsi.

He delivered this message on April 13, 2025, during the 31st commemoration of the Genocide Against the Tutsi, held in Gatumba Sector, Ngororero District, at the Kibilira Genocide Memorial.

Kibilira holds a special place in the history of genocide preparation in Rwanda, as it was here that genocide was first tested as early as 1990. At that time, the regime of President Habyarimana persecuted the Tutsi, accusing them of being accomplices of the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi).

It was also in Ngororero District, specifically in Kabaya Sector, where Dr. Léon Mugesera delivered his infamous 1992 speech that incited the Hutu population to exterminate the Tutsi.

Minister Mugenzi emphasized that these actions were the result of poor leadership that promoted genocide ideology, divisionism, and hatred instead of pursuing the common good.

Although 31 years have passed since the genocide was stopped, traces of genocide ideology still linger in parts of Ngororero. Minister Mugenzi urged individuals who are still held back by history to embrace change for the better.

“Those who are still tied to divisionism and genocide ideology—we urge you to change and become responsible citizens. Bear in mind that genocide and its ideology are punishable by law,” he said.

He also consoled survivors of the genocide, assuring them that the government remains committed to doing everything possible to protect them.

Kibilira Genocide Memorial is the final resting place for more than 25,000 victims of the Genocide Against the Tutsi.