Benin Stands with Rwanda as the World Marks 31 Years Since the Genocide Against the Tutsi

As Rwanda and the world marked the start of the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi on April 7, the Government of Benin joined in solidarity, reaffirming a shared commitment to memory, unity, and the fight against all forms of discrimination.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Benin’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, expressed deep sympathy with the people of Rwanda during this solemn time.

“Benin stands with the people of Rwanda as they remember, on this April 7, the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi,” he wrote. “We remember, we support, and we commit to fighting all forms of discrimination. Never again. Remember – Unite – Renew.”

Responding to the message a day later, Rwanda’s Ambassador to Benin, Rosemary Mbabazi, extended her gratitude on behalf of the Rwandan people.

“Thank you, Minister, for your message of unity on behalf of our friend-country, Benin,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter). “We deeply appreciate your solidarity. The Genocide against the Tutsi will never happen again. Remember – Unite – Renew.”

The exchange is part of a wider wave of global remembrance, as nations around the world continue to stand with Rwanda during this period of reflection. In 2018, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated April 7 as the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, calling on all member states to honor the memory of the victims and reaffirm their resolve to prevent future atrocities.

As Rwanda enters 100 days of remembrance, messages like these serve not only as diplomatic gestures but also as emotional bridges — linking nations through the shared values of humanity, peace, and the promise of “Never Again.”