Couples reconcile after years of domestic conflicts

KAYONZA – A local NGO in Eastern Province, Voice of Community (VOC), is working to reconcile families adversely affected by gender based violence in Kayonza district. At Mwiri sector on Thursday, a number of couples reflected on past cases of gender based violence in their families. Scovia Mukamarirwa, a mother of four said she remembered the kind of torments she suffered after getting married. “I have been in married for the last six years. But the period has been rough for me. My husband insults me, beats me, he says I am out-dated and not interesting,” she said. “That he is ready to change is a land mark victory of God’s power.” Vincent Mushinzimana, one of the men expressed remorse when he reflected on the way he was abusing his wife. “I drink too much, beat my wife, I don’t buy her clothes and food. I have abused her in so many ways that it is shameful talking about it,” he said. “But from today, I swear that I am going to reform,” he said. Over 90 families attended the meeting aimed at sensitizing couples on gender based violence. The coordinator of VOC, Innocent Musore, told the couples that it is high time they ended family wrangles that have only worked against them. He said the sensitisation campaign was aimed at showing the couples the importance of living together in harmony as a family. The Mwiri sector Executive Secretary, Samuel Kwizera, attributed domestic violence in the area to polygamy, alcoholism and ignorance. Ends