Macron and Kagame to inaugurate Tutsi genocide memorial in Paris

The memorial, located on the banks of the Seine, was conceived by artist Grada Kilomba as a place for remembrance and intergenerational transmission of the genocide's memory. The ceremony will include speeches from the two heads of state, Paris Deputy Mayor Emmanuel Grégoire, and genocide survivor Jeanne Uwimbabazi. Franco-Rwandan musician and writer Gaël Faye will read a poem by fellow Franco-Rwandan author and survivor Beata Umubyeyi Mairesse.

This event continues the process of reconciliation between France and Rwanda, which has involved dialogue, joint research, and France's acknowledgment of its responsibilities during Macron's 2021 visit to Rwanda. During that visit, Macron recognized France's responsibilities in the 1994 genocide, which killed at least 800,000 people, primarily Tutsi. He clarified that Paris was not complicit with Hutu genocidaires and did not apologize, but expressed hope for forgiveness from survivors.

This acknowledgment helped mend relations with Paul Kagame, who had previously criticized France's role. The French role before, during, and after the genocide was a contentious issue, leading to a diplomatic break between Paris and Kigali from 2006 to 2009. Following the inauguration, Macron and Kagame will attend an official dinner.

The article also notes that Rwanda's ro