Rwanda Rapid Study

The DUHUZE Connect Project is a community-based mental health intervention addressing the legacy of genocide ideology and intergenerational trauma in Rwandan society. Implemented from 2017 to 2022 by International Alert, in partnership with ARCT-Ruhuka (experts in trauma counselling and psychosocial support) and AJPRODHO-Jiujukirwa (focused on youth engagement and human rights), employed group therapy and dialogue sessions across seven districts to foster trust, cooperation, and societal healing among genocide descendants—both survivors and perpetrators. The project’s activities were carried out by trained community facilitators and mental health professionals from ARCT-Ruhuka, under the oversight and support of International Alert and AJPRODHO-Jiujukirwa. A case study, currently under development in collaboration with the University of Rwanda and Geruka Healing Center, aims to document implementation lessons and outcomes. Its findings will offer evidence-based insights to enhance mental health services, inform reconciliation policies, and support the replication of similar interventions in other conflict-affected contexts.