This Sunday 26, October 2025 in partnership with Justice and peace commission of Butare Catholic Diocese, at Kiruhura Parish the third phase of the Journey of Inner Healing, Unity, Reconciliation, and Resilience program was concluded. 326 who competed the teachings were reminded that completing the teachings does not mean the end of the journey, but rather the beginning of a new chapter. They were encouraged to live out what they learned especially those who committed the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi by giving real value to the forgiveness they received through good deeds and peaceful coexistence with those they wronged.
Muhirwa Moïse, who was granted forgiveness by Bagambiki Saidi after finishing nine years in prison for his involvement in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, shared his experience.
“Being imprisoned only, was not enough to free my heart. I still felt heavy until I asked forgiveness from the person I wronged. Before, I couldn’t approach him because I was full of fear and guilt over what I had done. These inner healing teachings gave me the courage to meet him, ask for forgiveness, and he forgave me. Since then, I feel at peace I no longer feel shame, and when we meet, we greet each other without fear. I thank the Government of National Unity, the Justice and Peace Commission that initiated these teachings, and especially the genocide survivors who chose to forgive us despite what we did.” He shared.
Bagambiki Saidi, who forgave Moïse, said that he had never known him personally, since by the time he was old enough to understand life, his entire family had already been killed. However, he decided to forgive after seeing Moïse come forward and tell him the truth about what he had done.
“This man came to me asking for forgiveness. I told him that for us to truly reconcile, he had to tell me everything including where my relatives’ bodies were. He explained everything in detail and gave accurate information. I realized that he had been honest and consistent even in previous testimonies. That healed my heart because I saw that they finally understood the gravity of their crimes. I forgave him sincerely.” He explained.
Saidi encouraged those who took part in the genocide but have not yet asked forgiveness to courageously approach their victims and ask sincerely, without pretending. He also urged genocide survivors to continue offering forgiveness, saying that it brings peace to the heart.
Kamana André, the Vice Mayor of Huye District in charge of Economic Development, praised both those who committed genocide for taking steps to seek forgiveness and the survivors for their courage in granting it strengthening unity and reconciliation.
“Continue nurturing this unity and walk together in building a country free from division. Be an example to others. I also urge those who have not yet attended these inner healing teachings to participate, to find freedom within themselves, and to share information about where the remains of genocide victims are still hidden so they can be buried with dignity. This helps bring comfort to survivors.” He stated.
“It is encouraging to see you taking an irreversible step toward unity and reconciliation. Be role models to others. Ask for forgiveness and provide information on where victims’ remains are located so they can be buried with honor because it truly brings peace to survivors when they give their loved ones a dignified burial.” He added.
Father Edmond Habiyaremye, Director of the Justice and Peace Commission of the Butare Catholic Diocese, urged those who received forgiveness not to take it for granted.
“As the Justice and Peace Commission, we will recognize you by the fruits you bear among your neighbors and wherever you go. Continue to promote unity and cooperation in the journey of national development, so together we can build a country free from division.” He emphasized.
Monsignor Jean Bosco Ntagungira, the Bishop of the Butare Catholic Diocese, thanked everyone who contributed to the success of this initiative. He reminded those who completed the inner healing program of the great value of forgiveness.
“I thank all those who played a role in making this program successful. I also remind the graduates of the importance of forgiveness, unity, and reconciliation. Do not remain trapped in the past of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi but rather take courageous steps toward resilience.” He stated.
Since the start of the Journey of Inner Healing, Unity, Reconciliation, and Resilience program in Kiruhura Parish, three phases have been completed, involving 527 people who granted forgiveness and 903 who asked for forgiveness.
