President Paul Kagame delivered a powerful and emotionally charged speech during the 31st commemoration of Kwibuka. The event marked 31 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Speaking in Kigali, Kagame called for dignity, independence, and unity—not just for Rwanda, but for the entire African continent.
“We must live the life we choose,” he said to a solemn crowd. “And to anyone threatening us with sanctions—go to hell.”
His words, direct and unflinching, come as tensions grow between Rwanda and some Western countries. Without naming names, Kagame criticized foreign interference and urged Rwandans to reject fear and stand strong.
“You have your problems. Go deal with them. Let me handle mine,” he said. “That’s the mindset every Rwandan must carry. We must believe in our worth and never accept disrespect.”
A Commitment to Never Repeat the Past
Reflecting on the events of 1994, Kagame was clear: Rwanda will never face such horror again. He stressed that the threat has not disappeared, but that Rwandans are ready to defend themselves.
“It won’t happen again—not because the enemies won’t try, but because we won’t allow it,” he said. “Yes, there’s a risk when you stand up. But doing nothing guarantees defeat. So why not fight?”
He also spoke about personal risks. Some people, he said, have warned him that being outspoken could endanger his life. But Kagame did not back down.
“If I were to stay silent and accept injustice, I wouldn’t be truly alive,” he said. “So if I must risk my life, I’d rather die fighting than live without purpose.”
An Urgent Message for Africa
Kagame widened his message to speak to all Africans. He urged them to stop depending on others for their survival and to stand up for their dignity.
“I refuse to beg to live,” he said. “We must fight for what we deserve. Even if we lose, there’s power in trying. And if we win, we earn the right to live with pride.”
The speech has already sparked conversations across Africa. Kagame’s words touched on a deep need for dignity, action, and self-belief across the continent. For him, Kwibuka31 was not just a remembrance—it was a call to shape a different future.
Turning Pain Into Purpose
While honoring those lost in the genocide, Kagame also focused on Rwanda’s strength. He said that remembering the past must go hand in hand with defending the future.
Kwibuka31 became more than just a memorial. It became a platform for a new message—one of pride, resistance, and hope. Kagame urged all Africans to stand up, reject fear, and build lives of purpose and strength.
His message was clear: Rwanda will never kneel again. And neither should Africa.