On June 26, Urukundo Foundation and Urukundo Learning Center held a commemoration to honor the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
Four buses transported students from the Tom Nunnally Sewing Center and employees to Kabgayi Genocide Memorial, where many innocent victims are laid to rest.
Upon arrival, we participated in a Walk to Remember, visited the graves, and laid flowers as a sign of respect.
The President of Ibuka spoke. Ibuka translates to “remember” and is the name of an organization dedicated to the genocide survivors. He explained that the Urukundo Foundation demonstrates its commitment to supporting the Rwanda government’s efforts to preserve the memory of the genocide, not because it is required, but because it reflects the true meaning of its name, Urukundo (which means “love” in Kinyarwanda). He also expressed that Rwanda, especially Muhanga District, is blessed to have the Urukundo Foundation because of its valuable contributions to the community.
The Executive Secretary of Cyeza Sector also thanked the Urukundo Foundation for working hand in hand with the sector in its daily activities. He said he felt blessed to serve as the leader of the sector because of the foundation's presence and requested that his sincere gratitude be conveyed to Mama Arlene for choosing Cyeza as the home of Urukundo Foundation and for the remarkable work being done to support the community.
Some of the genocide survivors who have received financial support from the Urukundo Foundation also shared heartfelt messages of appreciation. They expressed how the assistance has transformed their lives and said they hope to visit Mama one day to personally thank her for the kindness and support that have made such a positive difference in their lives.