Despite several indictments issued by Rwanda against suspected perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, government is concerned that several African countries have done little or nothing in bringing the suspects to book.

According to the Minister of the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Jean Damascene Bizimana, foreign countries’ role in prosecuting genocide fugitives is commendable. “However, there is still a need for further efforts to enhance its productivity, especially in African countries.”

He called on African nations to initiate the process of trying fugitives who are living in their countries.

“So far, no single African country has tried genocide suspects, although some have extradited them, including Uganda, DR Congo, and Malawi, among others. However, it is crucial for these countries to implement international agreements and try or extradite those who have fled to their territories,” he noted.

Commenting on the achievement made, he pointed out that “in some countries, laws punishing genocide crimes have been initiated, whereas in the past, there were no such laws. The implementation of these laws is helpful as it allows those who have committed genocide to be brought to trial,”

Since 2000, there have been several genocide suspect trials in Belgium and France. In Belgium, more than 10 suspects have been tried, while in France, individuals such as Laurent Bukibaruta and Claude Muhayimana have been tried and convicted.