Location: Rwanda - Kigali, Buhoro, Kibeho, Gatonde, Kibilizi, Busogo  and Musanze sectors

Situation:

Rwanda was decimated in 1994 by the genocide in which more than a million people died. Today, the country is rebuilding itself on the basis of a policy of unity and reconciliation. An important aspect is the  Gacacas, popular juridictions inspired by the country's culture and  tradition in relation to resolving conflict. This process may result in a re-opening of the wounds of 1994. Doctors of the World (DOW) supports an organisation, Ibuka, which provides psychological support to survivors.

Activities:

The project targets the psychological and social recovery of Rwandan genocide survivors. The victims involved in the Gacacas benefit from support that continues beyond their involvement in the judicial process and which is based on therapeutic group work to enable the healing of trauma and the development of social links. The project also places emphasis on developing the skills of medical and paramedical staff, by way of training, the exchange of practices, and learning from  experience. DOW provides institutional support to Ibuka on methods of collaboration.

Outlook:
As part of this partnership, the therapeutic groups will be extended until 2011. The community-based approach will be strengthened and the  training in mental health will be intensified. The position of this partner within Rwandan civil society will be consolidated by the strengthening of its technical, financial and institutional resources.