MEDIA ADVISORY

30^th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda (Kwibuka30)

INVITATION TO THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE MEDIA

What: The African Union Commission (AUC) through the Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS) of the African Union Commission (AUC), in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in Ethiopia and Permanent Mission to the African Union and UNECA, is organizing the 30^th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against Tutsi in Rwanda (Kwibuka30) under the theme "Remember-Unite-Renew". The event includes a ‘Walk to Remember’ and a high level event.

When:  Sunday, 07 April 2024, 9:00 am: ‘Walk to remember’, 11:00am: High level event, 1:00pm: Press briefing and refreshments

Where: At the Headquarters of the AUC, Mandela Hall

Background: During a span of one hundred days, over one million Rwandan citizens lost their precious lives in the Genocide committed against the Tutsi in 1994. Since April 7, 2010, as per the decision of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government, the African Union (AU) has been organizing annual commemoration events. The year 2024 signifies the 30th anniversary of those tragic days, a significant moment to honor the deceased, stand in solidarity with survivors, and join together to prevent such atrocities from occurring ever again. Additionally, it presents an opportunity to gain insights into Rwanda's journey of healing, reconciliation and nation-building.

Purpose: The overall purpose of this annual commemoration is to continuously awaken greater awareness of the African peoples and the international community about the value of life and humanity, and to renew our collective commitment to protect and uphold fundamental human rights.

Participation: The 30^th Commemoration is expected to be attended by Officials from the AUC, AU Member States, Members of the Diplomatic Corps, AU Organs, RECs, Religious Institutions, Human Rights Institutions, Intergovernmental organizations, Civil Society Organizations, UN Agencies, Think Tanks, International Organizations, Schools and Academic Institutions in Ethiopia as well as the Rwandan Community in Addis Ababa.

For media inquiries:

1. Ms. Limi Mohammed, GCP Communications focal point and Web Administrator, in the Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department, African Union Commission Email: shashlm@africa-union.org
2. Ms. Sandrine Mwiliriza, Communication Officer in the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in Ethiopia and Permanent Mission to AU & UNECA Email: smwiliriza@embassy.gov.rw

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org
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