Rwanda: What Happened On April 7, 1994 As Genocide Against the Tutsi Began

On April 7, 1994, the genocide against the Tutsi erupted, claiming over one million lives in just 100 days. The night before, a statement by Colonel Théoneste Bagosora announcing the death of President Juvénal Habyarimana urged citizens to stay indoors, facilitating the organized targeting of Tutsi. Among the first victims were moderate political leaders, including Prime Minister Agathe Uwilingiyimana. Mass killings quickly spread across the country, with reports of attacks in regions such as Bugesera and Gikongoro.