Muramvya, July 16, 2024 – The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), under the leadership of its president, participated in an important meeting in Rutegama commune, organized by MIPAREC (Ministry for Peace and Reconciliation Under the Cross). This event aimed to raise local awareness of the ministry’s missions and gather testimonies on the reconciliation efforts undertaken in the commune, a crucial step in a country marked by decades of conflict.
The meeting was held at the center of the Rutegama commune in Muramvya province. It gathered a crowd thirsty for truth, ready to listen to the testimonies of those who have managed to overcome past tragedies. MIPAREC sought to educate the residents about its missions while listening to striking testimonies illustrating how some residents have managed to reconcile with those involved in past violence.
The commune administrator, Stany Nimbona, recalled that Rutegama, like many other communes in the province, had been the scene of successive crises with tragic events such as the 1972-1973 genocide and the civil war from 1993 to 2008. These crises left deep scars but also stories of resilience and forgiveness.
A portion of the participants at the meeting.
Testimonies of life and hope
One of the most touching testimonies was that of Pastor Josias NDIKUMAGENGE, whose family found a path to peace. He shared the story of his brother, Samuel Nahimana, who disappeared after being denounced to wrongdoers. Despite the pain of this loss, the pastor chose to live in harmony with those involved in the tragedy, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation.
« The one who caused my brother’s death was close to our family, and despite this, we still live in peace with him, » he said, demonstrating the possibility of peaceful coexistence even after deep wounds from the past.
Other testimonies also illustrated MIPAREC’s positive role in the reconciliation process, notably through the ministry’s peace committees’ efforts. These stories show that despite a difficult legacy, bridges can be built toward a better future.
Pastor Jonas NDIKUMAGENGE is giving his testimony.
A future of reconciliation
Jean-Pierre Niyonzima, legal representative of MIPAREC, expressed his optimism about the possibility of lasting reconciliation among Burundians. According to him, reconciliation is a necessary process to ensure long-term peace and stability. He also emphasized that Vision 2040-2060 will be implemented in parallel with this process.
The president of the TRC, Amb. Pierre Claver NDAYICARIYE, made an appeal to parents: « It is essential that we teach our children the values of peace, social cohesion, and mutual respect, so they do not experience the difficult times that Burundi has gone through, » he said. He stressed the importance of raising the next generation in an environment free from discrimination, whether ethnic, religious, familial, or regional.
The President of the TRC, Ambassador Pierre Claver NDAYICARIYE: « Do not teach your children divisions. »
Towards a new era of peace in Burundi
The Rutegama meeting represents a significant step in Burundi’s reconciliation process. Through the joint efforts of the TRC and MIPAREC, it is clear that peace is not a vain word but an achievable goal. As life testimonies multiply, the determination of Burundians to overcome their wounds and build a peaceful future is strengthening. Hopes are now placed on the new generations, called upon to build a Burundi where peace and solidarity prevail over past divisions.
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