When we think of tourist sites in Rwanda, we often assume they’re meant for foreigners. But some of our most important places—like the Museum for the Campaign Against Genocide—exist for us, the people of Rwanda. They are spaces for reflection, remembrance, and learning, helping us understand the sacrifices that made our nation peaceful and united.
Many Rwandans learned about the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in school, but visiting places like this museum offers something deeper than textbooks. It tells the story of those who risked or lost their lives to liberate the country. Rwanda’s peace was not a given—it was fought for, often during the darkest times in our history.
Recently, the Papa Sava team visited the Museum for the Campaign Against Genocide. While they are not the first to go, their visit serves as a powerful reminder that it is our responsibility to connect with our past and pass it on. They are setting an example for others, especially artists, public figures, and ordinary citizens.
In a short interview, Niyitegeka Gratien, famously known as Papa Sava and Seburikoko, shared why his team chose to visit the museum:
“In this museum, there’s a room that features people who were once famous and used their influence the wrong way—like the journalists from Kangura who told people to kill. We want to visit more places like this and encourage others—especially people in cinema and theater—to do the same. This isn’t just about building our country, it’s about giving back to the society that raised us.
We came here to seek knowledge—because you can’t understand our past unless you ask questions. And the answers are here.
As for what’s next? It’s about sharing what we’ve learned and encouraging others to do the same. This museum is open every day, except on Christmas Day, Genocide Memorial Day, and New Year’s Day.”
Papa Sava’s message reminds us of the importance of kwimakaza—upholding Rwandan culture and proudly owning our history.
To deepen the conversation, Chita Magic spoke with Wilhelm Mugiramahoro, a staff member of Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy . He emphasized how valuable and accessible these museums are for all Rwandans:
“We welcome everyone to visit Rwanda’s eight national museums—but especially this one and the Rwanda Art Museum. This museum has three main parts: the former Chamber of Deputies, the Senate, and the Campaign Against Genocide exhibit. The exhibit you’re seeing today shows how the Rwanda Patriotic Army carried out operations to liberate the country during the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Many people don’t know that it’s allowed—and encouraged—to visit. Your presence here helps show others that these doors are open. This is for young and older generations alike. History belongs to all of us, regardless of age.
In the past, some famous people used their names and voices to spread hatred. Today, we hope the public figures we admire will use their platforms to spread peace and educate others. That’s the purpose of visits like this—to show where Rwanda came from and where it’s going.”
As for access, Willem emphasized that the museum is open every day except for Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and Genocide memorial day. The cost is affordable: 2,000 Rwf for adults and 1,000 Rwf for students.
“Some people think it’s hard to visit,” he said, “but it’s not. Everyone is welcome.”
Let’s Remember Together
The visit by Papa Sava and his team isn’t just a headline—it’s a message. A reminder. History isn’t something we read about and forget. It’s something we live with, something we inherit, and something we must pass on.
Let’s take the step. Let’s visit our museums, learn our history, and help others do the same.
Because remembering isn’t just honoring the past—it’s shaping Rwanda’s future.
For more information about how the visit was, you can watch the full video on Chita magic:
