During the commemoration period, survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi recount the events that they went throu, experiences that left many with lasting physical injuries and psychological wounds. These experiences continue to affect both their lives and those of their children, who often carry the weight of that trauma and the pain of losing family members. For many, the Kwibuka period brings back intense memories and emotions, making emotional and psychological support essential. ALSO READ: Genocide survivors still need support to heal from trauma – Ibuka Data from the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) shows that during last year’s commemoration period, 2,666 trauma cases required medical attention. RBC reports that trauma cases recorded during commemoration periods have declined over the years. Between 2010 and 2015, an average of 4,000 cases was documented. From 2016 onwards, the numbers dropped to between 2,500 and 3,000. In 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic, the reported cases fell further, ranging between 696 and 960, mainly due to restrictions on gatherings that limited public commemorations. ALSO READ: Kwibuka32: Rwanda will not die twice, says Kagame Dr. Darius Gishoma, Division Manager of the Mental Health Division at RBC, said that while the numbers appear to be decreasing, trauma has not gone away. He explained that the wounds caused by the Genocide are still present, but tend to become more visible during the commemoration period, when memories return more strongly. The decline in reported cases, he said, should not be taken to mean that trauma no longer exists, but rather reflects years of support efforts, stronger care systems, and changes in how commemoration activities are carried out. Eugene Rutembesa, a professor at the University of Rwanda’s College of Medicine and Health Sciences in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, explained the importance of dialogue between parents and children, and within families, as a way to remember and process the past. In this case, dialogue means open and supportive conversations that allow people to share experiences, ask questions, and better understand what happened. However, Rutembesa noted that some vulnerable families need more than just conversation. They may require medical care, stable means of living, and group therapy -- guided sessions where people with similar experiences come together to share and support one another. “We have public services from referralhospital levels, district hospitals, health centers, to the community, and some private initiatives. We have survivors’ associations such as Ibuka and Avega. To reach Avega, call 7494. For the national Emergency Medical Services (EMS) division, call 912, and RBC can be reached on 114.” RBC has urged anyone experiencing trauma symptoms to seek help from the nearest health facility or contact emergency services, including ambulance services at 912 and Rwanda National Police at 112. Dr. Celestin Mutuyimana, a clinical psychotherapist and founder of Baho Smile Institute, a psychotherapy and research centre in Kigali, said that support for survivors needs to be well-rounded, understanding, and long-term. By “well-rounded,” he means support that considers all aspects of a person’s life, including health, emotions, relationships, and cultural background, rather than focusing on only one. He explained that this support should respond both to survivors’ present-day needs and to what they have lived through in the past. Mutuyimana described these needs in terms of bio-psychosocial and cultural aspects. “Bio” refers to basic physical needs such as medical care and food. “Psycho” involves emotional support such as being present, listening carefully, acknowledging feelings, and helping people rebuild a sense of purpose in life. “Social” support includes helping people feel safe, connected to others, and part of a community. Mutuyimana added that cultural support is also important, as many survivors speak about a deep sense of loss connected to their identity and traditions. He gave an example of one survivor who said that what he valued most before the Genocide was spending time with family, sitting together, talking, laughing, and sharing life as a whole. “Therefore, it is very important to support survivors in regaining those feelings,” he said. The clinical psychotherapist added that the commemoration period can be a moment to reflect on the steps survivors are taking in their recovery. He stressed that support should recognise survivors’ vulnerability, while also acknowledging their resilience and their continued efforts to rebuild their lives. Support involves listening to survivors’ journeys, from surviving to building resilience, and in some cases, finding success, and recognising those efforts. This recognition can be strengthened through practical support where possible. Mutuyimana noted the need to support children by helping them learn positive ways to deal with difficult emotions and experiences. Such support can help those already affected by trauma, while also helping to prevent the continuation of violence and intergenerational trauma.
