Murambi, June 30th, 2025, As Rwanda continues the 100 days of remembrance marking the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) reaffirmed its commitment to unity, reconciliation, and remembrance through a solemn visit to the Murambi Genocide Memorial in Nyamagabe District.
Led by its President, Mr. Alphonse Munyantwali, FERWAFA’s Executive Committee and staff joined thousands across the country in honoring the over one million lives lost during the darkest chapter in Rwanda’s history. The visit to Murambi began with a guided tour through the memorial’s historical exhibits. Staff from the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE) walked the delegation through the tragic timeline from the unity of precolonial Rwanda, the divisive legacy of colonialism, to the horrors of the 1994 Genocide and the long road to rebuilding the nation.
Addressing the FERWAFA delegation, President Munyantwali emphasized the unifying power of sport in post-genocide Rwanda.
“As sportspeople, we have a national and moral duty to remain aligned with our government’s efforts toward unity and reconciliation. Visiting memorials like Murambi is not only a way to honor victims, but also a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to ensure ‘Never Again’ becomes a reality,” he said.
He further underlined the transformative role football can play in fostering peace and inclusivity.
“Sport is a universal language. It breaks barriers and brings people together. Our football community must always stand for unity, healing, and togetherness,” he added.
The FERWAFA President acknowledged that the remarkable progress Rwanda has made in rebuilding and reconciling as a nation would not have been possible without the visionary and unifying leadership of His Excellency President Paul Kagame. He emphasized that, after nearly a century marked by deep divisions, it is under President Kagame’s guidance that Rwanda has transformed into a dignified, resilient, and internationally respected nation.
He further underscored that it is now the collective responsibility of all Rwandans across all sectors including sports to safeguard and preserve this hard-earned unity and dignity, and to contribute meaningfully to the continued journey towards sustainable prosperity.
In a gesture of solidarity and compassion, FERWAFA provided financial support to selected genocide survivors in Nyamagabe District. This support is aimed at improving their livelihoods and reaffirming the football federation’s role in community upliftment beyond the pitch.
Each year, FERWAFA stands with Rwandans in commemorating the Genocide, not only through remembrance events but also by actively promoting peace and unity through football. This year’s visit to Murambi serves as a poignant reminder of where Rwanda has come from — and the unwavering resolve to build a better, united future.