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Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial
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Historical site
The Camp Kigali Memorial honors ten Belgian UN peacekeepers who were murdered at the start of the 1994 genocide. The soldiers were tasked with protecting Prime Minister Agathe Uwilingiyimana. On April 7, they were disarmed by Rwandan soldiers and taken to Camp Kigali, where they were brutally killed. Their deaths led to the withdrawal of the Belgian contingent and the drastic reduction of the UN mission in Rwanda (UNAMIR), which paved the way for the genocide to escalate. The memorial is located on the grounds of the former military camp. Ten stone pillars, one for each soldier, mark the spot where they died. Bullet holes on the surrounding buildings have been preserved. The memorial is a powerful reminder of the international community's failure to prevent the genocide.
- Location: Rwanda
- Top sights: Gorilla Statue · Sainte-Famille Church · Kandt House Museum of Natural History
- Nearby: Kicukiro (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 20 | 21 | 20 | 20 | 19 | 19 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 20 | 19 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 96 | 102 | 154 | 178 | 139 | 50 | 31 | 56 | 88 | 129 | 160 | 109 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The memorial for the Belgian peacekeepers is open to the public and located in a quiet area. Visitors can view the commemorative plaques and the monument.
Typical hours
The memorial is typically open during daylight hours, often from sunrise to sunset. There are no fixed closing times.
Photography
Photography is allowed, but please maintain a respectful demeanor. Close-up shots of the plaques are particularly impressive.
Time needed
A visit to the memorial takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Take time to read the inscriptions and reflect.
Combine with
Nearby are the Kigali Genocide Memorial and other memorial sites. The Kicukiro district also features local markets.
Getting there
The memorial is in the Kicukiro district of Kigali. You can reach it by taxi or motorbike taxi (moto) from the city center.
Insider tip
Visit the memorial in the morning to avoid crowds. Read up on the events of 1994 beforehand.
Geography
Facts
- Commemorates 10 Belgian UN peacekeepers.
- The soldiers were killed on April 7, 1994.
- They were assigned to protect Prime Minister Agathe Uwilingiyimana.
- Their deaths led to the withdrawal of the Belgian UN contingent.
- Each pillar represents a fallen soldier and their age.
- Located within an active Rwandan military camp.
- A symbol of the failure of the international community.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial (7)
Nyamirambo Women's Centre
Centre in Kigali, supports women through education and handicraft projects.
Niyo Arts Centre
Arts centre in Kigali, promotes contemporary Rwandan art and crafts.
Kigali zoo for Moussa
Zoo in Kigali, houses various animal species.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Camp Kigali memorial?
This is a memorial site for the murdered Belgian UN peacekeepers.
Is there an entrance fee for the Camp Kigali memorial?
Entrance is usually free, though donations are welcome.
Is Camp Kigali suitable for children?
Due to the serious subject matter, visiting with children is not recommended.
How long does a visit to Camp Kigali take?
A visit usually takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Are photos allowed at Camp Kigali?
Yes, but please show respect and discretion at the memorial site.
Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial: where is it located?
Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial is located in Rwanda.
Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial: what is there to see?
Highlights include Gorilla Statue, Sainte-Famille Church, Kandt House Museum of Natural History.
Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Belgian Peacekeepers Memorial: why is it worth visiting?
The Camp Kigali Memorial honors ten Belgian UN peacekeepers who were murdered at the start of the 1994 genocide.
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