Help 450 Rwandan Prisoners to Become Peacebuilders

Friends Peace House with support from GlobalGiving, trained 91 women prisoners of Nyamagabe District Prison in the Southern Province of Rwanda.

the primary objective of the AVP Training is to reduce incidents of violence within prison, enhance interpersonal relationships among inmates, and prepare women for successful reintegration into society post-incarceration.

the AVP Sessions were structured three days per week, whereby on Nov,7-9/2023, 31 participants were trained on basics. On Nov,14-16/2023, 30 Females were trained on Advanced training. On Dec,12-14/2023, 30 Females again were trained on Basic training. Topics such as communication skills, anger management, empathy development, and conflict resolution strategies were covered. the sessions were facilitated by trained professionals with expertise in psychology and social work.

active participation from the women inmates was encouraged through group discussions, role-playing exercises, and reflective journaling. this interactive approach aimed to deepen their understanding of nonviolent alternatives and promote personal growth.

One of the participants said "I gained a lot in this training. before, I didn't know the best way to approach a person in conflict, and most of the time I could blame others thinking that I was the only one right. but now, in resolving conflict I will be considering others with the aim of Win - Win Solutions

 On another hand, another participant said before the training my words were often sharp and aggressive. I would express my frustrations with intensity, creating a hostile environment around me. however, after undergoing the training I have experienced a profound shift. now, my communication is centered on empathy and understanding. I have learned to express my feelings and needs without resorting to aggression, fostering healthier relationships and a more positive atmosphere

This project is designed both to provide mediation and to train inmates in non-violent conflict resolution and mediation skills. This will empower them to resolve conflicts within the prisons as well as outside the prisons upon their release.

On the 6th of June, 2023 we managed to conduct training at Kicukiro District where we trained fifteen released prisoners on the Alternatives to Violence  Program. all trainees were happy with the fact that now people express themselves freely without fear due to the unity and reconciliation in the Rwandan Society. Conflict is part of our daily life and it is neutral you can not avoid it. therefore, as far as this project is concerned the prisoners when released we do a follow-up to see how they are applying what we trained them in the community and give them some technical skills on alternatives to violence, Some of those prisoners are now mediators in their respective communities where they live.

during the training, we divided them into small groups and they shared their testimonies where most of them testified that they are now living in harmony with the community. the attached photo was taken during the breakups into small groups.

we are, therefore, still encouraging all friends, well-wishers, and donors to continue to support this project because if funds allow us, we are planning to carry out other activities in different prisons and we need your extended generous hands.

Peace to you all!