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The need
In 1994, one million Rwandans were brutally murdered in the space of 100 days. The slaughter was the culmination of decades of conflict between Rwanda’s two major ethnic groups.
It is difficult to grasp just how deeply this tiny African nation has been scarred by its violent past. Widespread poverty, low literacy levels and high rates of HIV infection are just a few of the devastating effects of the genocide.
But perhaps the greatest challenge facing Rwanda’s next generation is that of reconciliation. How is it possible to overcome the bitterness born of experiences so traumatic they defy belief?
Making a difference
Partnering with African Enterprise, Bible Society is implementing a unique literacy project that harnesses the power of God’s Word to bring healing and forgiveness to shattered lives.
The project is reaching out to primary school students, teachers, parents and church leaders by providing Scripture-based education dealing with reconciliation, healing, peace building and leadership. ‘Reconciliation Clubs’ held outside school hours provide further opportunities for children to discuss, debate and dramatise these issues.
The Rwandan government has recognised the project’s positive impact in reaching 100,000 students to-date, and has requested it be rolled out to schools right across the nation, to reach 2.2 million students.
Changed lives
Mary Mukarusine is a Tutsi whose entire family was killed during the genocide.
She attended a reconciliation seminar for parents in Kigali, and although she didn’t know it, another of the participants was the man who had killed her brothers. During the training, he came forward and asked for forgiveness.
“I never thought a Hutu would kneel down and ask forgiveness from a Tutsi given the deep hatred between us,” Mary responded. “You must be sincere, and so I forgive you”. Mary now feels healed. Praise God for the reconciliation only Christ
can bring!
Reaching the goal
• Teach 39,000 school children
• Reconciliation workshops for 7710 community members
Donations to this project are tax-deductible
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