Supporting societal trauma healing in Rwanda – Evariste’s Story

February 20, 2023

 

More than 28 years after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Rwandans are still experiencing mental health issues, including deep trauma, depression, and anxiety. In response, Interpeace introduced community-based healing spaces to help decentralise mental health and psychosocial support services. Evalise Buregeye had been struggling to overcome trauma and depression. Through the resilience-oriented healing space/group created in Bugesera District, eastern Rwanda, he was able to heal and regain hope for the future. He has since regained interest in working and getting married. His story proves that individual inner peace is the foundation of lasting peace and development.