Kwibuka 31: Which mental health helplines can you use for support during commemoration period?
As Rwanda prepares to mark the 31st commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, mental health support services have been availed to help provide adequate follow-up care for individuals who experience emotional distress or trauma during the commemoration period.
Rwanda and the world will, on Monday, April 7, begin a three-months commemoration period that honours the victims of the genocide and reaffirms the country’s commitment to the “never again” resolve.
Commemoration activities will kick off with a commemoration week starting on April 7, centred around the theme “Remember, Unite, Renew.” The period will reflect on the tragic history that led to the genocide, but will also talk about the rebuilding journey, unity, and resilience of Rwandans, as well as the collective responsibility to fight genocide and its manifestations.
The helplines to assist genocide survivors and anyone else experiencing emotional distress or trauma during the commemoration period are:
- Ministry of Health: 114
- Emergency Medical Service: 912
- Rwanda National Police: 112
- Ibuka: 1024/5476
- AVEGA Agahozo: 7494
- Survivors Fund Rwanda: 2060
- Rwanda Red Cross: 2100
On April 4, Dr. Darius Gishoma, the Division Manager of Mental Health at RBC, urged journalists to approach their reporting on the 1994 Genocide with knowledge and sensitivity. He emphasized the need of understanding the emotional impact of the genocide and urged journalists to offer practical help to survivors dealing with mental health issues during the commemoration.
“We are requesting you to assist people with trauma during this period. When you see someone uncomfortable, filled with fear, help them find a comfortable space, be next to them, and offer the emotional support they need. Let the public know where they can seek help and provide the helplines available,” Dr. Gishoma said, noting that journalists should avoid publishing stories that might hinder a genocide survivor’s healing process and be mindful of the emotional impact their words may have.
“Write stories with purpose, focusing on what can make people stronger, rather than what could incite fear and pain. Also, prepare people, before Kwibuka, so that they begin the period strong.”
In 2019, he indicated, up to 3,268 trauma cases were recorded, while in 2020, the number dropped to 696 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The numbers increased in subsequent years: 964 in 2021, 1,923 in 2022, 2,184 in 2023, and 2,016 in 2024. He noted that the decrease in 2020 was largely due to the suspension of public commemorations, as people stayed home. However, trauma victims were still supported and transported to health centers for requisite medical treatment.
“These cases are primarily from genocide survivors, but we also receive trauma cases from people under 30 who were affected by what happened to their parents. Women are more affected than men,” Dr. Gishoma explained.
He added that 1,906 trauma cases were followed up in 2024, with 110 still missing. He observed that in April, there was an increase in people seeking treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), particularly those who were directly exposed to the genocide.
“Trauma and other mental health conditions persist as consequences of the genocide, making prevention and building resilience through community intervention crucial,” he said.
Dr. Gishoma highlighted that first aid and psychosocial support are available at commemoration sites, provided by Community Health Workers (CHWs), Rwanda Red Cross, and civil society organizations like Ibuka and AVEGA. Additionally, healthcare is available at all levels of the health system, 24/7.
Claire Nancy Misago, the Director of the Community Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit at RBC, explained that survivors often relive painful memories of the genocide, which can cause feelings of fear, anxiety, and emotional disconnect.
Some may even feel compelled to run away from the commemorative activities, whether they are watching on TV or participating in events in various sites.
“Many people experience PTSD, depression, anxiety, and panic disorders during this time. So, it is vital to offer emotional support if someone exhibits these symptoms. Just being there for them can make a difference.”