Why choose Rwanda?
Ethnic division and rivalry were dominant features of Rwanda’s society after it gained independence in 1962. The deep-rooted tension eventually culminated in an organised killing of Tutsi citizens, which resulted in an estimated one million deaths in 100 days.
Although now politically stable, Rwanda is still rebuilding itself and its people need economic and social assistance in its post genocide reconstruction.
In order to ensure that the lessons of the 1994 genocide are not forgotten, it is imperative that testimonies are documented. Survivors of the Rwandan genocide need to share their stories to release the horrors and tragedies bottled up inside them; through assisting with the transcribing of these testimonies, you will be working to heal the emotional wounds inflicted by the atrocities which tore apart the nation.
Children of all ages, orphaned through the genocide or born into families that cannot support them, have missed out on an education and now need to learn basic skills so they can gain employment. Teachers are required to teach these children a range of subjects, including English and Maths,to develop the students’ academic abilities as well as improve their confidence.
Rwanda is renowned for its forests, lakes and picturesque scenery, as well as its famous gorillas. On this placement volunteers will have plenty of opportunities to go on trips to these beautiful destinations, go sightseeing, and visit other projects in Rwanda, including memorial sites. Volunteers can not only go out to eat and drink in the bars and restaurants of Kigali, but are also able to learn how to cook 'Rwandan style' with the help of the staff who demonstrate how it's done in the canteen on campus (guaranteed to get the conversation going at your dinner parties for years to come!). With all of this you can't fail to have an enjoyable time on this working holiday.
Suggested reading:
‘Season of Blood: A Rwandan Journey’ by Fergal Keane
‘Visiting Rwanda’ by Dervla Murphy
‘Kill Thy Neighbour : One Man's Incredible Story of Loss and Deliverance in Rwanda’ by Corrine Vanderweff