French delegation visits widows’ project

SOUTHERN PROVINCE HUYE — Officials of Intore za Dieulefit, an association of residents from the Southern French town of Dieulefit have hailed genocide widows and orphans who are grouped under the association Ibyirigiro, for their success in the a piggery project within Southern Province. The officials made the remarks while visiting the project on Saturday. “Intore za Dieulefit” association is composed of members of the French society from Dieulefit town who admit the role of France in the 1994 Genocide, and have refused to buy into France’s denial propaganda. The association has pumped over Rwf 5million in the piggery project that is meant to improve the livelihoods of Genocide widows and orphans. Dr. Anne Marie Truc, the leader and founder of the group, remarked that what the association had achieved within a space of two years was impressive. “We are impressed with the work that you are doing,” said Anne Marie after touring the pig farm, adding, “We will continue our support to the project and ensure that it is a success.” Epiphanie Mukashema, the vice president of the Ibyiringiro Association was overjoyed by the continued support from the French association. “We have high hopes in this project, the start up phase has not been smooth but we hope that things will only get better,” said Mukashema, while giving the project report. The French group has also promised to give out 50 cows to survivors in Bisesero in Karongi District during their trip to the former Operation Turquoise Zone. According to Frank Ferrier, 67 a practicing psychologist, the projects are funded by individual contributions and fundraising proceeds from certain French communities. “We lobby for funds from people who are passionate about our cause. Many are not passionate about the idea but the support from Dieulefit has been encouraging,” he said. Francois Rutayisire, a Rwandan member of the Intore za Dieulefit Association said that the association has two objectives; sensitising the French public about the 1994 Genocide and the role of France in it, and mobilising funds to help survivors. “Some have listened to us but the attitude of many has been largely that which borders on denial,” said Rutayisire. The 12-member visiting entourage also consisted of Marguerite Carbonare, widow of Jean Carbonare, a French Human rights activist whose warning in 1993 of a possible Genocide in Rwanda was ignored by the world. “Jean Carbonare was part of the team that investigated earlier killings in some parts of the country that included Bugesera and Bigogwe. He was the first person to announce to the world on French Television that Genocide was being prepared in Rwanda. Unfortunately his warnings were not heeded,” said Dr. Ezechias Rwabuhihi, of his personal friend who passed away early this year. Rwabuhihi, says the group will also participate in Liberation Day celebrations on July 4. On Friday, the group visited the Murambi Genocide memorial site where the remains of 50, 000 people are buried. Ends