Rwanda’s history, marked by the tragic 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and its remarkable journey of transformation, captures the attention of many around the world. The Peacebuilding Institute (PBI), established by Never Again Rwanda (NAR), serves as a beacon of this transformation, offering a platform for learning about the resilience and determination of the Rwandan people in the face of unimaginable adversity. This workshop is a powerful reminder of the importance of remembrance, reconciliation, and renewal in the ongoing pursuit of peace and development. 

In June 2024, a group of young, aspiring peacebuilders from 11 different countries gathered in Kigali to embark on a two-week immersion at the PBI workshop. The participants engaged in sessions led by experts in peace, governance, and genocide studies, which were further enriched by visits to significant cultural and historical sites across Rwanda. These experiences allowed the peacebuilders to gain a deeper understanding of Rwandan traditions, history, and the country’s path towards peace. 

One of the participants, Angella Mhango Sakulingwa from Malawi, reflected on a crucial lesson she learned during the workshop: “I have come to deeply understand the significance of forgiveness and reconciliation in healing and preventing conflicts, and advocating for peaceful resolutions without resorting to violence.” 

For Rwandan peacebuilder Umutoni Hajara, the workshop served as both a reminder of Rwanda’s ongoing transformation and a call to action in the preservation of peace. “I stand more committed than ever to fostering harmony and understanding, knowing that the journey to peace is ongoing and requires the dedication of each one of us,” she shared. 

During one of the site visits, Alasana Justice Jallow from The Gambia was deeply moved by the raw humanity and emotions evoked by the testimonies of survivors and former perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. “The most interesting of the site visits was Kayonza at the Reconciliation Village. It was educative, but emotional and traumatizing,” he said. 

The sessions and site visits at the PBI workshop often serve as profound eye-openers, sometimes challenging participants with the harsh realities of genocide. Yet, these experiences are crucial, offering insights into the dire consequences of failing to promote and preserve peace. For the peacebuilders who complete the workshop, understanding the complexities of Rwandan history, particularly the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, is an essential step in transforming their peacebuilding aspirations into meaningful action.