Ten Things to Do at the Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site
The Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site in Gikongoro, Rwanda is a powerful and moving reminder of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. This memorial is a place of reflection and remembrance of the more than 800,000 people who lost their lives in the genocide. It is a place to honor the victims, remember the atrocities, and gain a better understanding of the history of the genocide. Here are ten things to do at the Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site.
1. Visit the Monument and Memorial Site: The monument and memorial site are both located on the same grounds. The monument is a large metal sculpture of a woman with her arms outstretched. The sculpture was designed by Rwandan artist Alphonse Niyomwungeri and is meant to represent the many innocent victims of the genocide. The memorial site includes a number of memorials dedicated to the victims of the genocide, as well as a museum that houses artifacts and documents from the genocide.
2. Participate in a Guided Tour: The Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site offers guided tours of the monument and memorial site. The tours are led by experienced guides who can provide information about the genocide and the memorials.
3. Attend a Memorial Service: The Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site holds memorial services in honor of the victims of the genocide. The services are usually held on the anniversary of the genocide and are open to the public.
4. Visit the Museum: The Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site houses a museum that contains artifacts and documents from the genocide. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits that provide information about the genocide and its victims.
5. Participate in a Workshop: The Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site hosts workshops on topics related to the genocide. The workshops are designed to help people gain a better understanding of the genocide and its impact on Rwandan society.
6. Take a Walk: The Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site is located in a beautiful natural setting. Visitors are encouraged to take a walk around the grounds to take in the scenery and reflect on the tragedy of the genocide.
7. Visit the Memorial Garden: The Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site has a memorial garden dedicated to the victims of the genocide. The garden includes a number of memorials, including a monument to the victims and a memorial wall with the names of the victims.
8. Attend a Lecture: The Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site hosts lectures on topics related to the genocide. Lectures are usually held by experts in the field and can provide a deeper understanding of the genocide.
9. Visit the Memorial Chapel: The Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site has a memorial chapel dedicated to the victims of the genocide. The chapel is open to the public and provides a place for reflection and remembrance.
10. Contribute to the Memorial Site: The Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site is always looking for donations to help maintain the memorials and keep the memory of the genocide alive. Donations can be made in person or online.
Visiting the Gikongoro Genocide Memorial Monument and Memorial Site is a powerful and moving experience. It is a place of remembrance and reflection, and a reminder of the tragedy of the genocide. By visiting the memorial site and participating in the activities, visitors can gain a better understanding of the genocide and pay tribute to the victims.