More than 350 people gathered in Queensland, Australia, on April 18 to mark 32 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, which claimed more than one million lives. The event, held at the University of Queensland, brought together members of the Rwandan community, along with Australian government representatives and friends of Rwanda, in a solemn act of remembrance. Speakers at the ceremony delivered messages of solidarity with survivors and paid tribute to the victims. They emphasized the importance of remembrance, warned against genocide denial and hate speech, and called for continued

More than 350 people gathered in Queensland, Australia, on April 18 to mark 32 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, which claimed more than one million lives.

The event, held at the University of Queensland, brought together members of the Rwandan community, along with Australian government representatives and friends of Rwanda, in a solemn act of remembrance.

Speakers at the ceremony delivered messages of solidarity with survivors and paid tribute to the victims. They emphasized the importance of remembrance, warned against genocide denial and hate speech, and called for continued efforts to promote unity and prevent division.

Murindangabo Rene, speaking on behalf of the Rwandan Community in Queensland, said remembrance carries a responsibility to stand for truth, reject hatred, and protect shared humanity.

Murindangabo Rene delivers remarks on behalf of the Rwandan Community in Queensland during the Kwibuka32 commemoration at the University of Queensland, April 18, 2026.

Participants also highlighted the need for justice and accountability, stressing the importance of ongoing efforts to ensure that perpetrators are held responsible. The role of education was underscored, particularly in raising awareness among younger generations about the history of the genocide.

During the event, genocide survivor Frida Umuhoza delivered testimony describing how the violence was systematically planned and carried out. She explained that the genocide was preceded by years of propaganda that spread hatred against Tutsi, contributing to a climate in which communities turned against one another. She also recounted how places that were expected to offer refuge, including churches, became sites of mass killings.

The programme included a candle-lighting segment, marking a moment of remembrance for the victims.

The commemoration concluded with a renewed call for vigilance against division and a shared commitment to the principle of “Never Again.”

Members of the Rwandan community and supporters gather at the University of Queensland during the Kwibuka32 commemoration marking 32 years since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, April 18, 2026.

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