Genocide Memorial Day in Rwanda
Rwanda’s Genocide Memorial Day is observed every April 7 to remember the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Known in Kinyarwanda as Kwibuka, the commemoration begins a national mourning week and a longer period of remembrance.[1][2]
History and meaning
The 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi lasted about 100 days and killed more than one million people, according to the Government of Rwanda. April 7 is the annual day of remembrance; Kwibuka means “to remember” and provides an opportunity to honour victims, preserve evidence and teach the history and lessons of the genocide.[1]
Rwanda’s commemoration is part of the country’s own public calendar and memory. April 7 is also the United Nations’ International Day of Reflection on the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, connecting the national observance with remembrance beyond Rwanda.[1]
A public holiday with a fixed date
Presidential Order No. 062/01 lists April 7 as the Memorial Day of the Genocide perpetrated against the Tutsi in 1994 and includes it among Rwanda’s public holidays. The order makes an exception for this date: when it falls on a weekend, the following working day is not made a substitute public holiday.[2]
The date remains April 7 each year. The order sets out a public-holiday designation, but does not specify individual opening hours for banks, shops, private businesses or transport services. Check with a particular provider if you need to travel or access a service that day.[2]
Mourning week and remembrance
Rwanda’s commemoration programme includes a seven-day mourning week from April 7 through April 13, as well as a 100-day remembrance period beginning on April 7. The law includes visits to and care for genocide memorial sites among the activities of the commemoration period.[3]
The Government describes Kwibuka as a time to remember victims, preserve historical evidence and educate people about the genocide. The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a place of remembrance and learning dedicated to victims; Rwanda’s national museums are closed on April 7 for the commemoration.[1][4]
Practical arrangements
Visitors should plan around the confirmed museum closure on April 7. Check with individual shops, banks and transport providers about their hours. Memorial sites are places of remembrance; visitors can consult the site directly for visiting arrangements.[4]
Frequently asked questions
When is Genocide Memorial Day in Rwanda?
It is observed every year on April 7, the date listed in Rwanda’s public-holiday order.[2]
Is it an official public holiday, and is there a substitute day?
Yes. It is listed as a public holiday. The order specifically excludes April 7 from the rule that moves a weekend holiday to the following working day, so there is no substitute day under that rule.[2]
How long does the commemoration last?
The law provides for a seven-day mourning week, April 7–13, and a 100-day remembrance period beginning on April 7.[3]
Are museums open on April 7?
Rwanda’s national museums are closed on April 7 for the commemoration. Check opening hours with other attractions or services before you go.[4]
Sources and references
Sources used for Genocide Memorial Day in Rwanda:
- About the government of Rwanda- Government of Rwanda
- Official Gazette n° Special of 21/10/2022- Ministry of Justice, Republic of Rwanda
- Official Gazette n° 22 of 30/05/2016- Rwanda Law Reform Commission
- Visit National Museums- Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy