Rubavu residents have been urged to support Genocide survivors during the commemoration period to help restore hope among them. 

The call was made, yesterday, during the launch of the Army Week in Rubavu District by Dr Alivera Mukabaramba, the State Minister for Social Affairs at the Ministry of Local Government (Minaloc).

"Many of our colleagues are still suffering from the wounds caused by the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. During this period, I call upon everyone to support their neighbour. I know there are Good Samaritans who help them, but a neighbour’s support is invaluable,”said Dr Mukabaramba said.

Some beneficiaries said being treated by the army that helped stop the Genocide increases their hope for the future.

"I feel relieved seeing the army that saved me from the killers in 1994 helping us to overcome the trauma caused by the Genocide,” said Aline Barije whose ears were treated by RDF soldiers yesterday.

Euphrasie Bunani, a resident of Rugerero Sector, who was seeking heart treatment at Gisenyi hospital, said: "I hope I will be cured since I am going to consult specialists. They saved me during the Genocide and I now feel relaxed seeing them treat me.”

"I was severely beaten during the Genocide and one of my legs was broken. I had lost hope but having heard that we will be treated by the very people who rescued us, I am convinced my leg will heal since I have seen those with worse deformities healed,” said Verediana Bavugamenshi, a resident of Nyakiriba Sector.

Aliane Mukabera a resident of Rugerero Sector said treating them during the commemoration week will help them overcome trauma caused by the Genocide.

Théophile Ruberangeyo, the executive secretary of Ibuka, said the Army Week drives enable beneficiaries to access quality services at affordable prices.

He said: "Since the introduction of the Army Week in 2012, over 35,000 people have been treated at a cost of Rwf300 million.”

Ruberangeyo said it would take over 20 years and Rwf20 billion to have the same number of people treated in ordinary medical operations.

At least 766 patients with various ailments were treated in the first two days.

The Army Week will run through April 4 with Gisenyi hospital and Mudende health centre the focus. The team is headed by Col. Dr Ben Karenzi

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