Every year, on 07/04 the country start commemorating the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, this period is known as Kwibuka, which means “to remember”. It last for 100 days between April and July to mourn and remember the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. This year, 2021, marks the 27th commemoration and Peace Education Initiative Rwanda commenced a variety of activities to support the survivors and empower them in their daily lives. Peacedu once again reminded the youth of history and engaged their drive to build a peaceful community. All implemented activities are at the heart of Peace Education Initiative Rwanda’s purpose to build peace, create a world free from genocide ideology, and promote reconciliation. The activities carried out as follows:
- During this time of remembrance, on 14/04, Peacedu gave livestock, 30 goats, to its members in Kayonza District, Rukara Sector, Eastern Province. The beneficiaries were mainly widows of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, the goats will serve as a source of milk and manure. Moreover, it will improve the socio-economic living of the beneficiaries through reproduction . This act is to show them support during this difficult time of remembrance lasting 100 days. The event was attended by the Executive Secretary of Rukara Sector, John Nkunzurwanda and the Executive Director of Peacedu Albert Rutikanga.
- As we continue this 27th commemoration of the 1994 Genocide perpetrated against the Tutsi, on this Sunday, 18/04/2021, youth clubs members affiliated to Peacedu visited Rukara Genocide memorial in the Eastern Province of Rwanda. The memorial is a resting place for 10,000 victims of the genocide against the Tutsi. The youth received testimonies from survivors and got deeper understanding of the horrific acts the victims experienced during that period. They learnt from physical evidence portrayed in the memorial and witnessed the consequences of the genocide. As we concluded the visit, the youth were determined to stand for human rights and peace education to prevent such atrocities to happen again.
- On 15/04/2021, Peacedu in collaboration with Hope of family from Muhanga District implemented Kitchen gardens for 50 members of the Peacedu organization in Rukara Sector. Hope of family’s beneficiaries shared their practice to set up kitchen gardens and Peacedu members received the practical knowledge that the will use to build gardens for additional members. The gardens will empower the families and loved ones to combat malnutrition by adding vegetables to their daily meals; therefore, contributing to a healthy diet.
- As students were preparing to go back to school; Peace Education Initiative Rwanda distributed school supplies to vulnerable youth club members in Rukara Sector Materials including: notebooks, pens, pencils, mathematical sets and school bags. This action is in effort to support their education and contribute to their growth as future leaders and peace advocates.