#Kwibuka28: Rwandan musicians release songs to commemorate genocide

Last week was no different as Rwanda observed the 28th commemoration of the genocide, known locally as Kwibuka, with a series of events set to keep the memory of those who perished and to drive the nation on a path of reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.

Over the years, Rwandese artists have used their talent to salve the nation’s wounds and ensure this chapter of history is never repeated.

This year’s commemoration has seen the release of songs by many of the country’s young musicians, who have lent their voices to the rallying call for remembrance, unity and renewal.

Here’s a look at some of the songs released this month to mark #Kwibuka28.

Sinarindiho by Sage Rwema Ineza

At just 10 years old, Sage Rwema Ineza should be enjoying the bliss of childhood, but having learnt about the genocide, he feels it is the duty of adults to educate the younger generation about it in his song ‘Sinarindiho’. “I was not yet born, but history goes nowhere. Dear parents, we share the sorrow and heartbreak with you though we didn’t see what you saw,’’ Ineza sings. Ineza says probing the past can reopen unhealed wounds but his country should be strong to revisit history so that it does not repeat itself.

Amarira Ndira by Jeanne d’Arc Giramata

Another young artist, 17-year-old Jeanne d’Arc Giramata, released ‘Amarira Ndira’, which is laced with moving messages to all Rwandans, especially the survivors of the genocide. “As a young girl, it was not easy,” Giramata told The New Times. “I wanted to deliver a message and to commiserate with all Rwandans in this tough time. Let’s be strong together and strive for self-reliance, work hard and make our loved ones proud.”

Tuguhoze Rwanda by Limu Floduard Twizeyimana

On 5 April, singer Limu Floduard Twizeyimana released ‘Tuguhoze Rwanda’, which calls for compassion and advocates for moving forward as one nation.

Ngire Nte by Jados Sengabo ft. Cecile Kayirebwa

This song captures the sorrow of genocide survivors with a prayer that the country does not descend into the same madness again.

Wa Munsi Wageze by Cyusa Ibrahim 

This song speaks of a father telling his young children about Rwanda’s history and asking them to never stop remembering. 

Igihango by Marcel Ntazinda and others

‘Igihango’ by Marcel Ntazinda is an all-star song featuring Mariya Yohana, Dieudonné Munyanshoza, Eric Senderi, Jean de Dieu Rwamihare, Grace Mukankusi, Ernest Ndayishimiye, Françoise Uwumuliza, Jean Marie Muyango, Aline Gahongayire, Eric Rukundo and Suzanne Nyiranyamibwa. The song is about the keeping promises made to the people lost in 1994.

Rusatira Turibuka by Dieudonné Munyanshozare

‘Rusatira Turibuka’ recalls the some of the names of the people who were killed during the genocide.

Impore Mawe by Ishusho ft. All Stars

‘Impore Mawe’ by Ishusho featuring Mariya Yohana, Junior Rumaga, Emerance Bwiza, Serge Iyamuremye, Alfred Kwizera, Eric Mucyo, producer Ayoo Rash, producer Li John, Chris Hat and Kenny Mirasano was released on 7 April and conveys a message of hope that Rwanda will remain safe, and that all the tears will be wiped away.

Umucyo by Pleasant and Precious

‘Umucyo’, meaning ‘light’, was released on 7 April and is a prayer calling for God’s divine comfort and courage on behalf of all the people mourning the loss of their loved ones.