Our mission and vision

In the national language of Rwanda, Mukomeze means empower her/him. The Mukomeze Foundation improves the living conditions of survivors of rape and other forms of sexual violence during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. By supporting these survivors physically, psychologically, materially, socially, economically and spiritually, Mukomeze contributes to their empowerment. This allows them to provide for their own existence and gain hope for a dignified future. Mukomeze thus contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations: in particular SDG 1 (no poverty), SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 3 (good health and wellbeing), SDG 4 (quality education), SDG 5 (gender equality and women empowerment), SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), SDG 8 (economic growth and decent work), SDG 10 (reduced inequalities), SDG 16 (peace, justice and strong institutions) and SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals).

We are in particular focussed on the south of Rwanda. We chose this region because: (1) The support on the countryside is less available than in the cities; (2) Relatively speaking most cases of genocidal sexual violence took place in this part of the country; and (3) We have good possibilities to support the survivors there, together with our partner organization.

Support is still needed

Even years after the genocide, support is still necessary. Many victims of sexual violence live in poverty and are often infected with Hiv/AIDS (about 70% of the survivors of sexual violence). Partly because of this, they develop other diseases as a result of their deteriorated immune system, such as cancer and tuberculosis. In addition, they are confronted with recurring trauma, live regularly in bad conditions, are sometimes stigmatized and do not always have access to education. Also the children of the survivors need support. In particular when they were born as a result of the genocidal sexual violence or when their mothers died as a result of the diseases as a result of the genocidal sexual violence or when the children are themselves Hiv/AIDS infected. Many women who have now grown older also come across many challenges without a family that can supports them.

Approach

Through lectures and fundraising Mukomeze tries to generate attention and funding for the women and men in Rwanda. The funding is spent in multiple ways, depending on the local needs and possibilities, but in particular in the areas of counseling, education,  and income generating activities (such as in agriculture, animal husbandry, and setting up a business). We work in close cooperation with Solace Ministres in Rwanda.

Membership

To keep our knowledge and skills up to date, the Mukomeze Foundation is a member of the following organisations and networks: WO=MEN, Partin, and CRSV Network NL. Mukomeze is also a signatory of the fourth NAP 1325 on ‘Women, Peace and Security.”