KAMONYI - As the country prepares for the upcoming 16th commemoration of 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, local leaders from the Southern Province made a commitment to uproot the genocide ideology and promote unity and reconciliation.

The leaders also affirmed the importance of showing support and care to traumatized people, and address Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) cases especially during the commemoration period.

The commitment was made during a two day leaders’ retreat in Kamonyi district over the weekend,  that saw over 370 grass root leaders attend.

The governor of the Southern Province, Fidele Ndayisaba, also emphasized the importance of local leaders and residents’ full participation in the 16th genocide memorial week.

"The commemoration of genocide was extended to grass root level so as to have all residents participate and own the event,” Ndayisaba said.

He added that during this period, residents will be able to handle cases of trauma which are commonly neglected in rural areas, which is the reason this year efforts were geared towards handling trauma.

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