Thousands of youth attend Our Past event, the annual commemoration event to pay tribute to youths that were killed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Photo by Dan Gatsinzi
hree decades after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Rwandan youth continue to grapple with the profound psychological impacts of this dark chapter in their nation’s history. The long-lasting impact of Genocide related trauma affects not only survivors but also the subsequent generations, manifesting as anxiety, depression, and identity crises among the youth.
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As Rwanda strives for national unity and reconciliation, addressing inter-generational trauma has become crucial for the nation’s future.
The aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi left deep scars on the survivors and their families, many of whom were left to raise children in an environment overshadowed by loss and grief. Today, these children, now young adults, carry the weight of their parents’ trauma, often without fully understanding its origins or implications.
Understanding inter-generational trauma
Inter-generational trauma refers to the psychological effects that traumatic experiences can have on descendants of those who directly experienced the event.
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In Rwanda, youth born after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi may not have lived through the violence themselves, yet they often feel the emotional consequences through stories of survival, loss, and despair. A recent study conducted by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda found that approximately 60% of Rwandan youth report feelings of anxiety and depression, often linked to familial trauma and the pervasive aftermath of the genocide.
Existing initiatives to address trauma
Recognizing the need for intervention, various organizations and government initiatives emerged to support mental health and resilience among the youth. The Rwandan government, through the Ministry of National Unity and Civic Engagement (MINUBUMWE), in collaboration with NGOs, established programmes aimed at healing and promoting mental well-being among Rwandans. One notable initiative is the “Healing and Resilience Program,” which focuses on community-based approach, enabling individuals to share their experiences and foster a collective healing process.
Schools have also begun incorporating mental health education into their curricula, aiming to raise awareness and destigmatize mental health issues among students. MINUBUMWE has organized dialogues on inter-generational trauma with students from ES Rutobwe in Kamonyi, TTC Byumba, in Gicumbi District, and GS Ndera in Gasabo District, aiming at supporting the youth to understand genocide related trans-generational trauma among Rwandans, how to recognize its signs and symptoms, its impact, and pathways to recover from it.
Challenges in addressing inter-generational trauma
Despite these initiatives, several challenges persist. A significant barrier is the lack of awareness about mental health and the long-term effects of trauma within communities. Many families remain unaware of how unresolved trauma can affect subsequent generations. This lack of understanding often leads to stigmatization of those seeking help, perpetuating cycles of silence and suffering.
Moreover, access to information remains limited. While urban areas may have better resources, rural communities often lack the necessary support systems. The availability of trained mental health professionals is sparse, and many individuals do not know where to turn for help.
Many young people lack awareness of the implications of inter-generational trauma and the resources available to them. Stigma surrounding mental health still inhibits open discussions, causing many to suffer in silence. Additionally, the lack of accessible information and resources—referred to as info-as-aid—hinders youths from seeking the help they need.
Proposed solutions for sustainable mental health resilience
To foster sustainable mental health resilience among future generations of Rwandans, a multifaceted approach is necessary.
First, increasing awareness about mental health and inter-generational trauma should be prioritized. Public health campaigns, community workshops, and school programmes can serve as platforms for education, encouraging open dialogue about the psychological impacts of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Second, expanding access to mental health services is crucial. Establishing community support groups can also facilitate peer-to-peer assistance, creating safe spaces for discussion and healing.
Additionally, integrating trauma-informed practices into schools will help educators recognize and address the signs of trauma among students. Training teachers to understand the psychological effects of trauma will lead to more compassionate and effective responses to student behaviour.
Finally, engaging youth in the healing process is vital. Initiatives that empower young people to become advocates for mental health can harness their energy and creativity, allowing them to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Programmes that involve storytelling, art, and performance can provide therapeutic outlets while fostering a sense of identity and belonging.
As Rwanda continues to heal from the atrocities of its past, addressing inter-generational trauma remains a critical component of national recovery. By increasing awareness, expanding access to mental health resources, and engaging youth in the healing process, Rwanda will cultivate resilience that not only honours the memories of those lost but also paves the way for a brighter future. It is an ongoing journey toward healing, unity, and hope, for generations to come.
The author is the protector of the friendship pact at the national level (umurinzi w’igihango ku rwego rw’igihugu).
