Rwanda's ICT community honors genocide victims during solemn commemoration

The National Cyber Security Authority (NCSA) joined government leaders and ICT sector representatives today for a commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The solemn event, which also memorialized former employees of IPOSITA RWANDA who perished during the genocide, saw participation from Rwanda's Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, underscoring the technology sector's role in national remembrance and reconciliation efforts. 

The minister joined NCSA officials and ICT industry leaders in paying tribute to the victims, emphasizing how Rwanda's remarkable digital transformation since 1994 honors those lost while building a more united future. "As we remember the dark days of our history, we also recognize how far our nation has come through unity and innovation," the Minister stated during the ceremony. 

The commemoration highlighted the particular loss suffered by Rwanda's then-nascent communications sector, with special recognition given to former IPOSITA (the precursor to Rwanda's current utilities regulatory agency) employees who were killed during the 100-day genocide. NCSA officials noted how today's thriving digital ecosystem stands as testament to Rwanda's resilience. 

The event formed part of Rwanda's annual Kwibuka (Remembrance) period, with the ICT sector's participation symbolizing how technology has become central to Rwanda's reconstruction and reconciliation journey. Minister Ingabire called on Rwanda's tech community to continue leveraging innovation as a force for social cohesion and economic empowerment. 

As Rwanda approaches the 30th commemoration of the genocide next year, today's ceremony reinforced how the nation's world-leading digital ambitions remain deeply connected to its commitment to "Never Again" with the ICT sector playing a unique role in both honoring the past and securing Rwanda's future.

By:  Kanto Kai Okanta