Ambassador of Rwanda Praises Egypt's Role in Africa’s Peace, Development

The Ambassador of Rwanda to Egypt, CG Dan Munyuza acknowledged Egypt’s partnership with Rwanda in development and peace efforts.

The Ambassador made the remarks on Monday as the Embassy of Rwanda in Egypt hosted a solemn commemoration event to mark the 31st anniversary of the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi, known as Kwibuka 31. 

Kwibuka is observed annually from April 7 to July 4.

The gathering brought together diplomats, members of the business community, religious leaders, members of the Rwandan community, and friends of Rwanda to honor the victims and reflect on the lessons of this dark chapter in history.

The government of Egypt was represented by Ambassador Mohamed Safwat, Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister for Nile Basin countries. Also in attendance was Dr. Mohamadou Labarang, the Dean of African Group of Ambassadors and Ambassador of Cameroun, Afrexim Bank president, Prof. Benedict O. Oramah, Sheikh Dr. Mohamed El Amin, Representative of Azhar and Priest Moussa Ebeid, Representative of the Coptic Orthodox Church.

Ambassador CG Dan Munyuza, Rwanda’s envoy to Egypt, delivered a moving speech, paying tribute to the more than one million innocent lives lost in just 100 days. He emphasized the importance of remembrance as a sacred duty and a guiding light for future generations.

Key Excerpts from the Ambassador’s Speech:

• "Kwibuka—meaning 'to remember'—is not merely about looking back. It is about confronting the painful truth of our past and safeguarding life for the future."
• "Rwanda learned the hard way that no one was going to intervene and stop the massacres. Today, we stand as a testament to resilience, unity, and progress."
• "The genocide against the Tutsi was not spontaneous. It was a carefully orchestrated campaign fueled by division, hatred, and the failure of the international community."

The Ambassador also highlighted Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to uncover the remains of victims, with 258 bodies recently discovered in Huye District of the Souther Province of Rwanda—a stark reminder that the wounds of 1994 remain fresh for survivors and the nation.

A Call for Global Vigilance

Ambassador Munyuza raised concerns about the persistent threat of genocide ideology, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where Tutsi communities continue to face persecution. He condemned the activities of the FDLR, a genocidal militia linked to the 1994 atrocities, and called for international action to dismantle hate-driven violence.

"Never Again must be more than a slogan. It must be a commitment backed by concrete actions to protect those at risk," he declared.

Gratitude to Egypt

The Ambassador acknowledged Egypt’s partnership with Rwanda in development and peace efforts, including collaborative discussions on resolving the crisis in Eastern DRC.

In his remarks as Guest of Honor, Ambassador Mohamed Safwat, Egypt's Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister, praised Rwanda's resilience, stating: "The courageous Rwandan people, under President Paul Kagame's visionary leadership, have transformed their nation into an inspiring model for the world." He emphasized the importance of regional stability, calling for "African solutions to African problems through dialogue and integration" while highlighting Egypt's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, including the soon-to-open Magdy Yacoub Cardiology Hospital in Kigali.

Ambassador Mohamed Safwat further raised an alarm, regarding the unfolding situation in the greatlakes region, calling for concrete action. "As we stand united in remembrance, the resurgence of instability in the Great Lakes region weighs heavily on our collective conscience," He emphasized.

"Sustainable peace and prosperity can only be rooted in dialogue, regional integration, and respect for sovereignty—principles that must guide our shared commitment to ‘African Solutions for African Problems.’" He added, reaffirming Egypt’s full support for ongoing mediation efforts.

Event Highlights:

• A moment of silence to honor the victims.

• Lighting the Flame of Remembrance, symbolizing hope and resilience.

• A call to action for the world to learn from Rwanda’s history and stand against hatred.