The African Union Commission, through its Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS), in collaboration with Kigali’s Embassy in Ethiopia and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, will lead a series of events marking the anniversary of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi people in Rwanda.

The program includes prayers from Orthodox, Muslim, Catholic, and Evangelical Ethiopian representatives, the lighting of the Flame of Remembrance accompanied by a commemorative song, the screening of a documentary on the genocide, and a minute of silence to honor the victims.

The central ceremony, set to take place in the Nelson Mandela Hall, will feature speeches by prominent figures, including Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AU Commission; Bankole Adeoye, PAPS Commissioner; and Charles Karamba, Rwandan Ambassador to Ethiopia.

This observance serves as a significant opportunity to pay tribute to those who lost their lives, express solidarity with survivors, and renew efforts to prevent future atrocities. The events also aim to deepen understanding of Rwanda’s path toward healing, reconciliation, and nation-building.

The gathering will involve AU Commission officials, member states, accredited diplomats, regional economic communities, religious and human rights institutions, intergovernmental and civil society organizations, UN agencies, academic institutions, and Rwanda’s diaspora in Ethiopia.

Between 800,000 and 1 million Rwandans—primarily Tutsis and moderate Hutus—were killed over the course of three months in 1994 during what has been described as a “bloody spring.” These events remain a pivotal moment in African history, highlighting the need for unity and accountability in the face of tragedy.

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