Rwanda and Burundi
The infamous genocide of 1994 seems long ago, but the future still remains bleak and uncertain for most of its survivors - it is only now that many have begun mourning their loved ones
Many still suffer from consequences of the genocide, such as rape or living with HIV. Others do not even have any trace of their people - they do not know whether they are still alive or, if dead, where they are buried.
Such a huge trauma crisis often leads to the closure of schools, family conflict, depression, and emotional crises within communities - while the huge suffering of children is often neglected. We support the Rwanda Psycho-Social Programme, which helps trauma sufferers through counselling and brings together a number of organisations.
 | “Helping women gives me strength” Founding Avega East, a Rwandan women’s association, helped Odette Kayirere find new meaning to life after the murder of her husband in the 1994 genocide. |
An extract from a CAFOD-produced CD Rom, originally for Lent Fast Day 2004
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Forgiveness has transformed communities in Rwanda where once hatred wreaked havoc. Trauma counselling and solidarity projects supported by CAFOD are helping heal Rwanda's wounds. |
