By Chioma Iruke, The Sight News
As the world marks the start of Rwanda’s 100 days of genocide which took place 25 years ago, many leaders have taken to social media to not only commemorate on the countries dark history but also its resilience and vast growth despite their odds.
The mass killings which took place between April and July 1994 of which majority of the victims were ethnic Tutsi, lasted a 100 days of the Hutu violence where over 800,000 people were killed. Despite this, Rwanda is said to be one of the fastest growing economies in Africa at 8.6 percent growth rate in 2018.
Commiserating with the nation, many world leaders have taken to social media to mark the country’s darkest days.
Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau wrote, “Today, we remember the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda & those who were senselessly murdered 25 years ago. We honour them by always standing up for human rights around the world & working to ensure atrocities like this never happen again.”
Former vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar wrote on his Twitter handle, “We have a lot to learn from the Rwanda experience, that 25 years after, the country has through purposeful leadership, enthroned a new regime of unity and love and is breaking new frontiers in development.”
Also reacting to the countries growth, President of the African Development Bank, AFDB, Akinwumi Adesina wrote, “Rwanda rose from the ashes of genocide to show the world how to forgive, heal and reunite. As the world remembers the 25th anniversary of the genocide, let’s make sure this never happens again in the world. Love unites. Hate destroys. Let’s love.”
Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair also speaking on the Genocide wrote, “Today is an opportunity both to remember all who tragically lost their lives in the horrific genocide 25 years ago, but also reflect on the incredible journey the country has been on since. Rwanda is now a nation on the rise, powered by its resilience.”
Many leaders especially from Africa arrived the nations capital Kigali over the weekend as the country began its 100 days of mourning yesterday.
