Released recently, fiction novel ‘Kill the Devil’ which portrays the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, seeks to shed light on forgiveness, and reconciliation between survivors and perpetrators. Written by Rwandan author, screenwriter, and poet Juvens Nsabimana and Dr Tony Macaulay, a bestselling author, and peacebuilder, from Northern Ireland, the book is aimed to evoke readers to ponder on pardoning the offenders, and requesting forgiveness from those they offended. According to Macaulay, since its launch in the US, on April 5, the book has attracted reactions from readers who have been fascinated with learning about reconciliation in Rwanda. “Although people in the US, and the UK, have read and heard about the Rwandan Genocide, most of them had no clue about what occurred between survivors, and perpetrators, after the Genocide,” he added. He further noted that readers that have completed reading the book have requested a movie with the same storyline. ALSO READ: Rwandan author discusses new book 'Kill the Devil' on reconciliation and hope Even though the authors anticipate producing a movie, they believe that it will take some time as it requires a producer, investors, and actors, among others. They are optimistic that this step will be achieved with time. On July 13, the book was launched in Rwanda. During a panel discussion at the event, Macaulay stressed that although the book emphasises forgiveness, it is a choice to forgive, stressing that taking action to forgive means killing the devil, resisting pain, and healing from the desire for revenge. He also carried on that forgiveness would be the solution to conflicts happening all over the world. Christophe Mbonyingabo, the Executive Director at Christian Action for Reconciliation and Social Assistance (CARSA) stressed that the journey towards unity and resilience is certainly difficult, yet it remains possible and profoundly impactful for those who embark on it. He noted that societies that have endured similar atrocities to Rwanda, such as the Genocide, often find themselves trapped in a post-genocide period marked by conflicts, hatred, and violence. “Failing to address these issues can trigger prolonged periods of strife, lasting decades or even centuries. In this regard, Rwandans are truly blessed, as we have taken the difficult path of rebuilding and forgiveness, and we are making significant progress,” Mbonyingabo said. He also explained that Rwanda’s commitment ensures that future generations inherit a peaceful and developed nation, with a remarkable legacy to uphold. According to Mbonyingabo, Kill the Devil not only provides valuable insights and highlights the significance of unity and reconciliation in Rwanda, but it also serves as a reminder that our country’s sacrifices should never be taken for granted. “While we celebrate in peace, we must acknowledge that our neighbors and other regions continue to grapple with insecurity, death, hunger, and numerous challenges.” Nsabimana expressed excitement to have written a subject that is important to Rwandans, and hopes for change even for future generations, because forgiveness is medicine to the heart Although the book is in only English, the authors anticipate translating it into Kinyarwanda, French, and other languages. The audio recording of the book is in progress and will be out in August. The voice behind the audiobook is Rwandan actor, Roger Jean Nsengiyumva. The copies of the books are available online, via Amazon, eBay, in Rwanda at Ikirezi bookshop, and Charisma bookstore at Rwf 14,000. Way forward Nsabimana looks forward to initiating libraries for youngsters in slums who can’t afford reading materials and hardily access libraries. Growing up in the suburbs of Gikondo, he fell in love with reading books, though it was difficult accessing a library considering the area was a slum, and he couldn’t afford transport to the libraries. “I would walk for about one hour and a half to the library inside the US Embassy. The hardships I encountered in the search for knowledge and information, are evident that many young people are facing the same challenges that I stumbled upon,” Nsabimana said. In order to help them acquire knowledge, books are one of the sources of information. It is for this motive that he anticipates putting in place libraries to offer a chance to the young generation to access free internet, learn how to read and write, and partake in other literacy activities such as composing and reciting poems.
