Dialogue and forgiveness strengthen Rwanda’s national unity to 95%

By The Inspirer.

Structured dialogue between perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and survivors has helped reduce mistrust and foster reconciliation across Rwanda, the Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr. Jean Damascène Bizimana, said.

Recent surveys indicate that Rwanda’s national unity reached 95.3% in 2025, reflecting the impact of these reconciliation efforts across the country.

Speaking during a meeting with Andrew Corley, CEO of Prison Fellowship International, Dr. Bizimana highlighted the role of Prison Fellowship Rwanda (PFR), which works in prisons to encourage convicted perpetrators to seek forgiveness while supporting survivors in granting it.

“These dialogues have gradually broken down suspicion and helped both sides heal,” Dr. Bizimana said. He added that the collaboration between PFR and the government has become a national model, demonstrating that Rwandans from all backgrounds can live together peacefully.

Challenges remain, particularly in the Western and Southern Provinces, where the genocide’s impact was most severe. Programs under MINUBUMWE continue to teach civic values and emphasize unity, reconciliation, and forgiveness.

Bishop John Rucyahana, CEO of PFR, noted that even decades later, some perpetrators still struggle to fully acknowledge their role. “Reconciliation is a long-term journey. It requires persistent effort, much like healing a chronic illness,” he said.