Leaders in Rubavu District have warned young people against believing dangerous ideas about the Genocide against the Tutsi after a student from the University of Tourism, Technology and Business Studies (UTB) was arrested over controversial statements.
The discussion happened on 11 May 2026 during a meeting between local leaders and students from UTB.
The meeting came shortly after reports that a first-year student identified as Ndatimana Zebro, aged 20, had been arrested over statements linked to genocide ideology.
What the Student Was Accused Of Saying
According to information shared during the discussions, the student allegedly rejected the official term “Genocide against the Tutsi” while speaking to another student.
Reports also said he made comments claiming that “Hutus should also be remembered,” alongside other statements authorities considered connected to genocide ideology.
The incident reportedly happened on 14 April 2026.
Authorities said the student comes from Bugarama Sector in Rusizi District and was studying in his first year at UTB before his arrest.
Rubavu Mayor Speaks to Students
Rubavu Mayor Prosper Mulindwa told students that universities are places where future leaders of the country are prepared.
Because of this, he said students must avoid divisionism and genocide ideology.
He encouraged young people not to accept everything they hear from older people, including parents, without thinking carefully.
According to the mayor, some young people repeat harmful ideas they hear at home without understanding the seriousness of those words.
He said:
“It is painful to see a young person showing genocide ideology. It often means they heard those ideas from older people and believed them.”
Students Asked to Protect Unity
During the discussions, leaders reminded students about the importance of national unity and Rwandan values.
Mayor Mulindwa said young people should reject any message that can divide Rwandans.
He also encouraged students to educate older generations whenever they hear dangerous or misleading ideas related to the genocide.
Officials believe youth have an important role in protecting Rwanda’s unity and peace.
UTB Founder Supports Awareness Talks
The founder of UTB, Zulfat Mukarubega, also attended the meeting and said the discussions were important for students.
She explained that understanding Rwanda’s painful history helps young people build stronger national values.
According to her, students were also given responsibility to stand against genocide denial and genocide minimization.
She said:
“Students now better understand the country’s history and their role in protecting unity.”
For more informations Visit National Unity and Reconciliation Commission — https://www.nurc.gov.rw
Student Leader Expresses Concern
The president of students at UTB, Mugisha Patrick, said it is worrying to see a young person connected to genocide ideology at such a young age.
He explained that children and youth should grow up learning unity, patriotism, and respect for all Rwandans.
He added that schools and families should work together to guide young people toward positive values.
More Cases Reported During Commemoration Week
Authorities in Rubavu District said that during the first seven days of the 32nd commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, they recorded eight cases related to genocide ideology.
Some of the cases reportedly involved young people under the age of 20.
Leaders continue asking parents, teachers, and communities to help educate youth and prevent hateful ideas from spreading.
Why This Conversation Matters
Rwanda continues to invest heavily in unity and reconciliation programs, especially among young people born after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Officials say schools play a major role in teaching history, fighting divisionism, and helping students understand the importance of peace and national unity.
