The Alumni of Genocide Survivors’ Students Association (GAERG), celebrated their 20th anniversary on March 4, expressing gratitude for the unwavering support of the nation which has played a crucial role in their healing journey and triumph over unimaginable tragedy.
For the past two decades, GAERG has been a symbol of hope and resilience for survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
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At the annual ‘GAERG Turashima’ event held at the Aheza Healing Center in Nyamata, GAERG’s president Jean Pierre Nkuranga highlighted the importance of members gaining strength from each other and becoming healers to one another.
"We are grateful to have gathered before the commemoration week, as it reminds us of the strength we have gained from our families and our country, which has been a healing force for us,” he said.
"Through our gatherings, we not only gain strength to stay resilient but also help and support the vulnerable. Remembering where we came from and thanking God for protecting us is an integral part of our healing process. We also express our gratitude to the leadership of this country and Inkotanyi soldiers who saved many lives during the Genocide.”
Nkuranga further expressed his gratitude to President Paul Kagame for leading the liberation struggle and ending the Genocide.
He also thanked the government for setting up the Genocide Survivors Assistance Fund (FARG), which is now under MINUBUMWE, as it has provided assistance to many in various living conditions, including over 4500 resilient GAERG members.
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"When the Genocide ended, some of us were just toddlers while others were casualties, either physically or emotionally. However, today, we have become parents, doctors, leaders, educators, and soldiers. We have come a long way, and we remain grateful for the support that has brought us this far. We are resilient, and we will continue to support one another as we heal and rebuild our lives,” Nkuranga concluded.
Jean Damascene Bizimana, Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement addressed the GAERG members, urging them to reflect on their values and ensure that they turn their words into actions.
He expressed his gratitude for their accomplishments in preserving the history of the Genocide against the Tutsi and fighting against genocide ideology, denial, and hate speech, emphasising that these efforts must continue and be strengthened.
"Let us commit to supporting our vulnerable fellows and fighting against genocide ideology. We cannot remain silent when it still exists in places like DR Congo. We must speak out and use all possible means, especially technology and social media,” he stated.
Bizimana further emphasised the importance of unapologetically reinforcing these efforts, with everyone taking responsibility for the cause. "We must all stand for it and understand that it is our responsibility,” he added.
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In his address, Rev Antoine Rutayisire emphasised the importance of a positive mind-set in overcoming trauma, stating that allowing others to dictate one’s worth can be detrimental.
He urged GAERG members to strive for personal growth and not dwell on their past, but rather focus on their goals and work towards them together as a community.
"We have healed from what was running after us, now, let’s have a goal without leaving anyone behind,” he said.
Louis De Montfort Mujyambere, Vice President of IBUKA, said that preserving the history of the Genocide and striving for ‘never again’ is crucial to achieving the targets set by the country, urging GAERG to remain focused and continue working together to fight genocide ideology without deviating from their mission.
Mujyambere also called GAERG to continue their courageous efforts in helping Genocide survivors and stressed the importance of working towards ambitious goals with a clear vision.