As Rwandans commemorate the 22nd anniversary of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the welfare of survivors has improved tremendously over the years. Today Genocide survivors are stronger and more hopeful compared to the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide that left over one million people dead. The Government has heavily invested in solving the challenges faced by the Genocide survivors but their needs are still overwhelming largely because of the devastating consequences of the Genocide, which still manifest 22 years later. The fund for support of Genocide survivors (FARG) estimates that at least Rwf23 billion is needed to repair dilapidated homes of genocide survivors and build new ones. The fight against Genocide and its effects is far from over, but resilience and the Rwandan spirit will prevail. The survivors need support to completely heal from the effects of the Genocide. We must, collectively, keep the momentum to achieve this goal. On top of fighting genocide revisionism, ensuring that vulnerable survivors get the needed support to live better should be every one’s responsibility. It should not be left for government alone. Every Rwandan can make a personal contribution to this cause to find better shelter, education, and healthcare for survivors. Homes that were built for the survivors 20 years ago, may now be in need of a repair or fresh coat of paint. This is something that individual Rwandans can do as a gesture of good will towards healing of genocide wounds. Individuals can mobilise and build houses for the vulnerable survivors. The solution to the needs of vulnerable and poor Genocide survivors will not come from outside but from within. Let it be the responsibility of every Rwandan to put a smile on the faces of the poor and vulnerable Genocide survivors.
