The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a permanent exhibition that commemorates the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. It is located in Gisozi, a suburb of Kigali, and was opened in April 2004 on the tenth anniversary of the genocide.
The memorial is dedicated to the memory of the more than one million people who were killed during the 100-day genocide, including the estimated 250,000 children who lost their lives. It also provides a place of remembrance and education for visitors to learn about the history of the genocide, its causes, and the consequences.
The memorial features a range of exhibits, including photographs, personal stories, and artifacts that illustrate the history and impact of the genocide. The exhibits are divided into three main sections: the historical section, the memorial section, and the education section.
The historical section provides an overview of the events leading up to the genocide, including the colonial period, the role of the media in spreading hate speech, and the assassination of President Juvénal Habyarimana. It also explores the aftermath of the genocide, including the efforts to bring justice to the victims and survivors.
The memorial section is a space for visitors to pay their respects to the victims of the genocide. It includes a mass grave containing the remains of more than 250,000 victims, as well as a Wall of Names that lists the names of those who were killed.
The education section is dedicated to educating visitors about the history and impact of the genocide. It features videos, interactive displays, and other educational resources that provide context and perspective on the events of 1994.
Overall, the Kigali Genocide Memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities that were committed during the genocide and the need for continued efforts to promote reconciliation and healing in Rwanda and beyond.
The Kigali Genocide Memorial is open daily, and admission is free. It's an essential stop for anyone visiting Rwanda and an opportunity to pay respects to the victims and learn more about the country's history.