Fostering unity and Social Cohesion in Post Genocide Rwanda: Case of the Catholic Church in Rwanda.

Abstract

The study embarks on solutions related to the contribution of the Catholic Church in promoting unity and social cohesion among Rwandans in a post genocide Rwanda despite some of its priests involvement. The study was exploratory in nature that used both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The population of study used purposive sampling inspired by the catholic commission of justice and peace thus choosing the Catholic Church leaders, Genocide survivors, Genocide convicts, Local Government leaders and common citizens as participants. The population of study is limited to only 50 people in different categorises of catholic priests, genocide survivors, genocide convicts, Local Government living in Kigali as it is not easy to talk to everyone. The study only limits itself on the role of Catholic Church in fostering unity and social cohesion in post genocide Rwanda covering Catholic Cathedral Parish of Kigali Arch-Diocese. The study reveals enormous contribution of the Catholic Church in uniting and promoting social cohesion among Rwandans notably the existence of peace and justice initiative that is implemented all over the country. Key words used in the study are Unity, social cohesion, Catholic Church, genocide (survivors and convicts).