![\"The](\"http:\/\/allafrica.com\/img\/static\/publishers\/minibanners\/newtimes180.jpg\" "\\"Visit")
<\/a><\/p>\n30 December 2011<\/p>\n
\n
Seventeen years after the Genocide against the Tutsi, remains of more than 3,000 victims in Gisenyi Sector, Rubavu District still remain in a pit with the tools that were used to slaughter them.<\/p>\n
The remains are buried in “red zone” a place famously known for having been a killing ground for thousands of Tutsi during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.<\/p>\n
Ibuka, the umbrella body for Genocide survivors in Gisenyi Sector, blame local authorities for not being mindful of the need for a decent burial for the victims.<\/p>\n
“The local authorities that were in place after the Genocide didn’t take this seriously, even after repeated complaints,” said Innocent Kabanda, head of Ibuka in Rubavu District.<\/p>\n
“Local leaders were fighting the idea to construct a decent memorial for the remains of the victims since some of their relatives were in custody accused of Genocide”.<\/p>\n
However, Ibuka thanked the current leadership for spearheading the construction of the memorial site expected to accommodate the remains.<\/p>\n
A fundraising drive for the construction project has raised Rwf17 million, far below the total estimated cost.<\/p>\n
The modern memorial site estimated to cost Rwf88 million will be located in the “red zone” because of the place’s historical importance.<\/p>\n
It will be the largest in the Western Province with a capacity to accommodate over 40,000 bodies.<\/p>\n
Although all funds are yet to be secured, construction will kick off next month, according to local authorities.<\/p>\n
Bralirwa, the country’s main brewer for soft and alcoholic drinks, has pledged support as well as continued fundraising towards the project.<\/p>\n
The district and other institutions have also promised support.<\/p>\n
AllAfrica – All the Time<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n