In an effort to foster resilient unity, CARSA organized two Peace Conferences this month at the Ruyanza School Complex in Nyarubaka Sector, Kamonyi District, and Mata Complex School in Muhanga District in Rwanda’s south. At these events, CARSA brings two reconciled people — a genocide survivor and their direct perpetrator—to share their stories openly with the group and allow the youth to ask questions to help them understand the circumstances of the tragedy and brainstorm the way forward. 

Twenty-six RCG members from the Nyarubaka Sector of Kamonyi District gathered at Christine Karubera’s house. The genocide widow was in need of bricks to rebuild her house that was destroyed by the harsh rain last season. Both finances and age had precluded her from restoring it herself. Since the storm, Karubera had no place to cook and little remains of the house to store possessions.

October 2024, a month to reflect on unity and resilience, became a particular moment for the youth in peace clubs as they came together to do various activities to serve survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and improve social wellbeing in various ways. Most groups made plans to renovate old houses, help cultivate land, make kitchen gardens, visit neighbors, and provide foodstuffs.

A new hope is emerging in the Mugina, Kamonyi district, Rwanda. The historically marginalized People formally known as Batwa people, are finding new ways to boast a sense of dignity and belonging as well as improve life conditions, and build a sustainable future.

CARSA—Focusing on shaping young people to be at the center of peace and sustainable development