The song "Kwibuka" by Gaël Faye is a tribute to Rwanda, a country that has experienced great tragedy and loss. "Kwibuka" means "remember" in Kinyarwanda, the official language of Rwanda. The lyrics reflect on the history and resilience of the Rwandan people. The song opens with the lines "Above these hills, my voice rises forever, Oh my beloved Rwanda," emphasizing the singer's deep connection and love for his country. The song acknowledges the devastating events of the Rwandan genocide, which took place in 1994. It mentions "a million drops of water falling from earth to sky" and "a million of our graves in torrential downpours," representing the countless lives lost during that period. Despite this immense tragedy, the song speaks of standing tall and defying the fate that engulfed them, affirming their strength and infinite origins. The lyrics express the singer's dreams of remembering and honoring the past. They speak of being in the "garden of memories" and of resurrecting from the depths of despair, transforming smiles into eternal scars. The song reminds listeners to never forget, whether it's a storm in April or a sunshine in July, representing both the pain and hope experienced by the Rwandan people. "Kwibuka" also includes lines in Kinyarwanda, celebrating the resilience and strength of the Rwandan people, and expressing gratitude for the good things they have shared. Overall, the song is a powerful and emotional tribute to Rwanda, its people, and their ability to rebuild and remember amidst great adversity. It is a reminder to never forget the past and to always carry the dreams and memories of the Rwandan people.
