10 Things to Do at the Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Centre in Rwanda
Located in the heart of Rwanda, the Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Centre (GGMC) is a powerful reminder of the 1994 genocide that took place in the country. The centre serves as a memorial and educational site for visitors to learn about the atrocities that occurred during this time. Here are 10 things to do at the GGMC to gain a better understanding of the genocide and its aftermath.
1. Visit the Genocide Museum
The Genocide Museum at the GGMC is a must-see for anyone wanting to learn more about the genocide that occurred in Rwanda. The museum is filled with photographs, artifacts, and other evidence of the genocide. Visitors can also hear testimonies from survivors of the genocide, as well as learn about the international response to the tragedy.
2. Attend an Educational Program
The GGMC offers educational programs to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the genocide. These programs are designed to help visitors understand the history of the genocide, as well as the impacts it had on the country.
3. Take a Guided Tour
The GGMC offers guided tours of the memorial centre. During the tour, visitors will learn about the history of the genocide, as well as the efforts to rebuild the country since then. The tour also includes visits to memorial sites, such as the mass graves.
4. Participate in a Memorial Service
The GGMC holds regular memorial services to remember the victims of the genocide. During the service, visitors can pay their respects to those who were lost.
5. Visit the Memorial Garden
The GGMC has a memorial garden filled with trees and plants that were planted in memory of those who were killed in the genocide. Visitors can take a moment to reflect and remember those who were lost.
6. Attend a Lecture
The GGMC regularly hosts lectures and seminars to educate visitors about the genocide. These lectures are given by experts in the field and provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history and aftermath of the genocide.
7. Participate in a Workshop
The GGMC also offers workshops for visitors to learn more about the genocide. These workshops are designed to help visitors gain a better understanding of the genocide and its impacts.
8. Visit the Children’s Centre
The GGMC has a Children’s Centre, which provides educational and recreational activities for children. The centre also offers counselling and support to children who have been affected by the genocide.
9. Visit the Research Library
The GGMC has a research library which visitors can use to learn more about the genocide. The library has books, articles, and other materials related to the genocide.
10. Attend a Film Screening
The GGMC regularly hosts film screenings to help visitors gain a better understanding of the genocide. The films are often documentaries or feature films about the genocide.
Visiting the Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Centre is a powerful experience that can help visitors gain a better understanding of the genocide and its aftermath. By taking part in the activities offered at the centre, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the tragedy that occurred in Rwanda.