How Rwanda continues to heal 25 years later

Rwanda, a country that has been on a long and arduous journey towards healing in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, continues to grapple with the long-lasting effects of trauma on its population. As the 25th anniversary of the genocide is commemorated, efforts to address mental health issues and PTSD have gained momentum in the country. Joseph Kalisa, a Clinical Psychologist, sheds light on the progress made and the challenges that still lie ahead in an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa. Kalisa highlights the significant number of people in Rwanda who have been affected by trauma, with statistics indicating that approximately 27% of the population are survivors of the genocide. This staggering figure underscores the urgent need for comprehensive trauma management and psychosocial interventions to support those grappling with the enduring effects of the atrocities that took place more than two decades ago. Reflecting on the history of trauma management in Rwanda, Kalisa acknowledges that efforts in this area were relatively nascent before the genocide. However, in the years since the tragic events of 1994, the landscape has evolved significantly, with a growing number of local organizations, institutions, and government bodies actively engaged in addressing mental health challenges. Despite the progress made, Kalisa emphasizes that trauma is a complex and enduring issue, with manifestations that can persist over a lifetime. As manifestations of trauma continue to surface in various forms, including drug abuse and intergenerational trauma, there is a renewed local focus on enhancing mental and emotional healing initiatives. The emergence of new counseling centers, such as the Aheza Center for Counseling and Career Guidance, and innovative spaces like the meditation park, are indicative of a growing awareness of the importance of mental well-being in Rwanda. One of the key concerns raised by Kalisa is the affordability of mental health treatment in Rwanda. While strides have been made in decentralizing mental health services to district hospitals and integrating them into primary healthcare settings, issues around insurance coverage and affordability persist. Kalisa acknowledges that access to mental health care remains a challenge for many Rwandans, and calls for continued efforts to make treatment more accessible and affordable for all. With the upcoming trauma symposium scheduled for the 8th and 9th of May, Kalisa underscores the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaborative efforts to address the complex mental health needs of Rwanda's population. The symposium, which will bring together experts and stakeholders in trauma management and psychosocial interventions, presents an opportunity to reflect on lessons learned and chart a path forward in Rwanda's healing journey. As Rwanda continues to navigate the legacy of the genocide and strive towards a future of healing and reconciliation, the commitment to addressing mental health challenges remains a critical priority. With a growing emphasis on community-based interventions, increased awareness of trauma's far-reaching effects, and a collective determination to support those in need, Rwanda stands poised to continue its path towards healing and resilience in the years to come.