Beyond the Pitch: Regional and International Athletes Call for Unity and Resilience During Kwibuka32
Denis Omedi (APR FC & Uganda): Denis Omedi, originally from Uganda, stated that today marks the 32nd commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, honoring those who lost their lives and standing in solidarity with survivors. He noted that as an APR FC player, he joins his teammates and all Rwandans in #Kwibuka32, emphasizing the use of sports to promote peace and ensuring the promise of “Never Again.”
Niyomugabo Claude (Captain, APR FC): The APR FC captain highlighted their responsibility to serve as role models for the youth, teaching values of unity, love, and peace. “Commemorating for the 32nd time is not just a time for sorrow,” he said, “but a time to reflect on our loved ones and focus on rebuilding. As an APR FC player, it is our duty to continue setting a good example for the younger generation.”

Leroy-Jacques Mickels (Amavubi & Zira FK): The national team striker urged the youth to learn from history to build a country based on mutual respect and pride. Speaking to ISIMBI, he encouraged Rwandans to remain united: “Let us not forget the past; let us continue to build a future based on respect and love. Be proud of our country and never forget that human dignity must never be violated.” He noted that the world should learn from Rwanda’s choice of unity and reconciliation after such dark history.
Emery Bayisenge (Rayon Sports): The veteran defender expressed that the sports community stands closely with those who lost their families, encouraging them not to be overwhelmed by grief. “We should not forget, but rather work harder so that we are not consumed by our history,” he stated, adding that Rayon Sports stands in total solidarity with survivors during this period.

Niyigena Clement (APR FC): The defender emphasized that sports is a powerful tool for bringing people together and building unity. He paid tribute to the victims and comforted survivors, stating: “I believe that sports unites people and fosters cohesion. Let us continue to champion peace and the values that build our nation, ensuring that genocide never happens again.”

There is a collective call for the media to continue reporting the truth and historical facts with sensitivity toward survivors. The media is urged to support the nation in fighting against those who deny or trivialize the Genocide against the Tutsi.
