InternationalAlert 348d ago

International Alert has been working with ARCT-Ruhuka since 2007 to help support reconciliation between those affected by the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi as well as to facilitate open and inclusive dialogue on contemporary sensitive issues in communities, schools and universities in Rwanda. Issues of trauma, anxiety, depression and other symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder remain very high among Rwandans, almost 30 years on from the genocide. Yet, stigma around mental health and psychosocial wellbeing can make it challenging to reach those who most need support. “Because when you have those wounds, then it is not easy to open up,” explains Jane Abatoni, ARCT-Ruhuka’s Executive Secretary. We spoke with Jane as part of International Alert's Peace of Mind project, which demonstrates how peacebuilders can effectively incorporate mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) in their own projects, drawing on lessons from our experience in Rwanda and Tajikistan. Find out more at www.international-alert.org/peaceofmind