Understanding the role of forum for unity and reconciliation in post genocide peacebuilding Rwanda: case of Gasabo district

Abstract

The study aimed at understanding the role of forum for unity and reconciliation in post genocide peacebuilding Rwanda: case of Gasabo District. It is an exploratory research and used qualitative approach, with purposive sampling. The selected respondents were 28 from the forum for unity and reconciliation, leaders at sector level, convicted genocide perpetrators, genocide survivors, and different leaders at district level. During data collection, semi structured interviews and documentary techniques were used. This research had three specific objectives: to explore the impact of campaigns for peace education in peacebuilding in Gasabo District; to analyse the contribution of community dialogues in relation to peacebuilding; and to examine the role of psychosocial healing sessions in post genocide peacebuilding. In addition, the study examined the challenges that the forum for unity and reconciliation members face while performing peacebuilding efforts in Gasabo district. The findings showed that the respondents cherished the forum for unity and reconciliation‟s role. The study found out that despite many successes, forum for unity and reconciliation faces some challenges related to resources, both human and finance. There is also a challenge of poor collaboration with local authorities. In addition, genocide ideology still exists especially by diaspora genocide perpetrators. The study recommended NURC, Gasabo District and Forum for unity and reconciliation to take strong measures to ensure that all challenges that the forum faces related to the capacity, capability, genocide ideology and collaboration between stakeholders are handled.