Our flagship reconciliation program that facilitates transformative encounters between survivors and perpetrators, fostering healing and sustainable peace
"Isanamitima" is a Kinyarwanda word meaning "to reconcile" or "to bring together in harmony." This program embodies the essence of true reconciliation - not just coexistence, but genuine healing and restoration of relationships.
Isanamitima is more than a program - it's a carefully designed journey that guides participants through the complex process of reconciliation, from initial contact to lasting peace.
The Isanamitima program is built on the belief that true reconciliation requires courage, vulnerability, and a willingness to see the humanity in one another. We create safe spaces where survivors and perpetrators can share their stories, acknowledge pain, and work together toward healing.
Our approach recognizes that reconciliation is not a destination but a journey - one that requires ongoing commitment, support, and grace. Through structured encounters, therapeutic interventions, and community support, participants discover that healing is possible and that former enemies can become partners in peace.
The Isanamitima program is guided by fundamental principles that ensure ethical, effective, and transformative reconciliation processes
Creating physically and emotionally safe environments where all participants feel secure to share their experiences and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment or retaliation.
All participation is completely voluntary. No one is forced or coerced into the program. Participants can withdraw at any time without consequences.
Every participant is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their role in past conflicts. We honor the humanity in every person.
Encouraging honest sharing of experiences while maintaining confidentiality. Truth-telling is facilitated in a supportive environment.
Reconciliation cannot be rushed. We allow adequate time for each phase of the journey, respecting individual healing timelines.
Addressing emotional, spiritual, psychological, and social dimensions of healing through integrated therapeutic approaches.
A structured 8-phase process that guides participants from initial contact to lasting reconciliation
Careful identification and screening of potential participants, ensuring readiness for the reconciliation process. This includes psychological assessment and voluntary consent.
Comprehensive preparation including education about the reconciliation process, trauma healing, and conflict transformation principles.
Personal healing work through individual counseling, therapy, and spiritual support to address trauma and prepare for encounters.
Separate group sessions for survivors and perpetrators to build trust, share experiences, and prepare for cross-group encounters.
Facilitated encounters where survivors and perpetrators share their stories, acknowledge harm, and begin the process of understanding.
Guided processes of forgiveness (when ready) and accountability, including acknowledgment of responsibility and commitment to change.
Development of concrete agreements for ongoing relationship, including practical steps for coexistence and mutual support.
Ongoing support and monitoring to ensure sustainability of reconciliation, with regular check-ins and additional support as needed.
Real testimonies from Isanamitima participants who have experienced the power of reconciliation
"I never thought I could sit in the same room with the person who killed my family, let alone call him a friend. But through Isanamitima, I discovered that healing was possible. Today, we work together in our community, and our children play together. This program gave me back my life."
"I carried the weight of my actions for 25 years. I thought I was beyond forgiveness. Through Isanamitima, I learned to face the truth of what I had done and found the courage to ask for forgiveness. The survivor I harmed became my teacher in humanity. We are now partners in peace."
"As a community leader, I witnessed the transformation that Isanamitima brought to our village. Families that had been divided for decades came together. Children who had grown up in fear learned to trust. Our community is now a model of reconciliation for others."
"I was born after the genocide, but I inherited the hatred and fear. Isanamitima helped me understand that I didn't have to carry my parents' pain. I learned to see people as individuals, not as representatives of groups. Now I work to ensure my children grow up in peace."
Take the first step toward healing and reconciliation
Isanamitima offers hope where there was despair, healing where there was hurt, and peace where there was conflict. Take the courageous step toward transformation.