The role of community joint association in promoting peaceful cohabitation between genocide survivors and former genocide perpetrators in Rwanda the case of Ukuri Kuganze Association

Abstract

This research was conducted with the purpose of analyzing the cohabitation of the former genocide perpetrators and the genocide survivors of the 1994 genocide against Tutsi, while exploring the interactive attitudes and behaviors expressed by the former enemies as well as the challenges faced in the journey of peacebuilding; particularly the study focused on the members of Ukuri Kuganze Association which is located at Bugesera District. After violence of the 1994 genocide against Tutsi, the Rwandan society was deeply divided where people were suspicious towards each other. Regardless the antagonism existed, it was imperative for all Rwandans to remain living together peacefully and harmony in a single community, either the former genocide perpetrators or the genocide survivors. Although the pains and hate can’t be dispersed easily, mutual acceptance and respect were the initial step toward reconciliation. The results of the research pointed out the impact of cohabitation of the adversaries in the process of reconciliation. This study is a qualitative research, interviews and documents review were used as the data collection techniques. The participants of this research were the genocide survivors together with the former genocide perpetrators, all from the Association Ukuri Kuganze based at Bugesera District, neighbors and local leaders based in the area where the association carrying out its activities. In fact, co-existence of the parties eliminated the climate of suspicious and hatred. The involvement of the both parties in the practices and strategies of peace building were useful in promoting new engagement in relationships. Despite the government and other institutions initiatives of unity and reconciliation, the Association Ukuri Kuganze played a big role in reunifying the former antagonistic parties and eliminating the hatred.