Remembering a pillar of strength and compassion in the Rwandan community.
Josephine Murebwayire, a beacon of hope and resilience in Rwanda, passed away on October 5, 2023, at the age of 72. Her life story is one of unimaginable loss and remarkable strength, as she transformed her grief into a mission of healing and support for others affected by the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Murebwayire lost her husband and all six of her children during the genocide, with only she and her mother surviving from a family of nine. Despite this profound tragedy, she dedicated her life to helping others, particularly widows, orphans, and elderly survivors who had lost everything. Her commitment to community service and compassion made her a mother figure and mentor to many.
A Life Forged in Unimaginable Loss
Murebwayire’s story is deeply intertwined with Rwanda’s tragic past. After enduring a trauma that would break many, she emerged with a commitment to forgiveness and reconciliation. Her life before the genocide was filled with warmth and family, but those years were abruptly shattered as she witnessed the murder of loved ones and undertook the painful task of searching for their remains.
Despite her suffering, Murebwayire became a pillar for thousands of survivors, guiding them through their own paths of recovery and dignity. Her resilience and compassion inspired many, as she transformed her grief into a source of strength for others.
Starting Humura Nturi Wenyine
In 2012, Murebwayire founded Humura Nturi Wenyine, a support group for elderly genocide survivors, known as Ababyeyi b’Intwaza, based in Kigali. This group provided a space for healing and connection, advocating for access to healthcare, housing, and emotional support. What began as a small gathering quickly grew to about 60 members, each finding comfort in Murebwayire’s leadership.
Dancilla Mukandoli, an early leader who worked closely with Murebwayire, recalls her selflessness and dedication. “Even when she had suffered deeply herself, she devoted every effort to identifying who needed help and ensuring that no survivor felt abandoned,” Mukandoli said.
A Model of Patience, Empathy, and Courage
Valerie Mukabayire, another colleague, emphasized Murebwayire’s boundless empathy. “She knew the struggles of every member, remembered their names, visited them in their homes, and prayed with them,” Mukabayire noted. Murebwayire’s approach to leadership was holistic, combining material support with emotional care and spiritual guidance.
She organized gatherings where survivors could share their grief and support one another, teaching that community healing is as essential as healthcare or housing assistance.
From Local Impact to National Recognition
Murebwayire’s influence extended beyond Humura Nturi Wenyine. She served as Vice-President of AVEGA Agahozo, shaping programs that offered social, psychological, and economic support to thousands of genocide survivors. Her courage and humility earned her respect across the country, as she remained grounded in her personal experiences.
“She used her suffering to guide her actions—always putting the needs of others first,” Mukandoli recalled.
Forgiveness and Reconciliation
One of the most extraordinary aspects of Murebwayire’s journey was her capacity to forgive. Despite her losses, she visited some of the perpetrators in prison, urging them to seek atonement. Her acts of forgiveness were not about erasing pain but about creating a path forward for survivors and society.
Mukabayire emphasized that Murebwayire taught them that strength manifests through grace and understanding, not vengeance.
Responding to Ongoing Needs
The challenges facing survivors were immense, with many living with disabilities and trauma. Murebwayire prioritized both immediate relief and long-term sustainability, organizing medical support and establishing peer support systems. She identified vulnerable survivors and ensured they received the care and companionship they needed.
“Humura Nturi Wenyine” (Don’t worry, you are not alone) was more than just a name; it was a philosophy that ensured no survivor was neglected.
Inspiring Leadership Through Faith and Love
Murebwayire’s deep spiritual grounding was evident in her regular prayers with survivors, seeking divine guidance in her work. Her love was tangible, creating an environment where members of Humura Nturi Wenyine trusted her with their hearts.
Legacy and Lessons for the Future
Murebwayire’s legacy is profound. Humura Nturi Wenyine remains a testament to her vision, helping survivors maintain dignity and community. Her approach combined emotional support, advocacy, and practical aid, offering a blueprint for social care that transcends simple charity.
Her colleagues stress the importance of her example for future leaders, emphasizing that true leadership is about empathy and putting the welfare of others first. Murebwayire’s resilience and capacity for forgiveness remind us that even in the darkest moments, we can act with grace and restore hope.
As Rwanda remembers Josephine Murebwayire, her contributions to the survivor community and her unwavering commitment to healing will continue to inspire generations to come.
Sources: The New Times
Key Points
- Josephine Murebwayire lost her entire family during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
- She founded Humura Nturi Wenyine in 2012 to support elderly genocide survivors.
- Murebwayire was known for her empathy, selflessness, and commitment to community healing.
- She served as Vice-President of AVEGA Agahozo, impacting thousands of survivors.
- Her legacy emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and community support.
Sources: Josephine Murebwayire: A light after darkness, a legacy of healing
