A new study has shown that Rwandans are good at negotiating and finding common ground with each other, as well as working together. Done by the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE) and partners like InterPeace, the study surveyed more than 7,400 people in all the districts of Rwanda with an aim of assessing resilience within the country. It employed a mixed approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, collecting data at four levels: individual, household, community and institutions. At the individual level, a self-assessment questionnaire served to collect data on psychological resilience. At the household, community and institutional levels, the study used a community scorecard approach through focus group discussions to measure the level and sources of resilience as well as fragility. Among its findings was an impressive national average of 87.5 per cent of Rwandans’ ability to negotiate and find common ground as an indicator of resilience. “This suggests a robust ability of individuals to work together, find common ground and engage in effective negotiations,” the report read. Following closely was the variable of empathy, tolerance and forgiveness with a score of 85 per cent, “reflecting a society that values understanding, acceptance and the ability to forgive.” The indicator of hope and spirituality was found lagging somewhat with a score of 3.3 out of 4 (82.5 per cent). “This indicates a need for additional efforts to foster a collective sense of optimism and spiritual well-being,” the report read. The study showed that the indicators of growth orientation, critical thinking and decision making only scored around 3.1 out of 4 (77.5 per cent), showcasing “only a moderate level of proficiency in these areas, hence calling for improvement.” Jean-Damascene Bizimana, the Minister for National Unity and Civic Engagement, told the media the study was aimed at getting more understanding of the community and trying to put in place programmes to continue building resilience, especially among the younger generations. “It is necessary to examine the level of values like heroism, zeal, honesty, and love for work, so that we get to know the programmes that need to be established for the community and the categories of people that need attention,” he noted.
