Forty-one residents of Mbogo and Burega Sectors in Rulindo District have been recognised for their contribution in counseling and addressing trauma in the community.

The residents were recognised by Rwanda Association in Trauma Counseling (ARCT– Ruhuka), Tuesday, during a field visit aimed at evaluating the impact of the project after training of community psycho-social workers in four sectors of Rulindo on trauma recovery and settlement of family disputes.

The group, that also received goats, included community psycho-social workers, eight anti–trauma and family disputes clubs and ten families.

Jane Abatoni Gatete, the executive secretary of ARCT–Ruhuka, thanked local leaders and community psycho-social workers on their close partnership in solving family challenges, including trauma and disputes.

"We have been working with Rulindo residents for the last three years. There were many cases of trauma and family disputes which hindered family development. ARCT–Ruhuka came to help solve such problems by partnering with community and local leaders,” she said.

She explained that at least 40 families from each sector trained in trauma handling and counseling.

Abatoni noted that family disputes and trauma affect children.

"Such challenges can cause children to leave their families and live on street while others are affected academically. It is laudable that you created clubs to help solve family problems,” she added.

She urged the group to continue sensitising families on harmonious co-existence.

Local leaders and residents testified that three years of the organisation work in the area have been fruitfull in terms of settling disputes.

"Family disputes and trauma have decreased. In our sector, the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi affected many people. Trauma and disputes sometimes resulting into death, were the main challenge in this sector. But the trainees were challenged to visit all families with such problems. Thereafter, clubs were created to involve everyone, including children in solving family challenges,” Nzeyimana said.

Felicien Nsanzamahoro, a community psycho-social worker representative in Mbogo sector, said they work with local leaders to address challenges in families.

Sylvan Musengimana and Vestine Maniraguha, a couple, recalled that their family was always embroiled in conflict until they received counseling from psycho-social workers.

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