FROM TRAUMA TO THRIVING: EVALUATING THE EFFICACY OF TRADITIONAL HEALING PRACTICES IN POST-CONFLICT COMMUNITY RECONCILIATION IN RWANDA
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The Rwandan Genocide of 1994 left deep psychological and social scars on the nation, posing significant challenges to post-conflict reconciliation. While modern psychological therapies have been implemented to address trauma, traditional healing practices, rooted in Rwanda's cultural and communal practices, have played a pivotal role in the recovery process. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of traditional healing practices in promoting individual trauma recovery and facilitating community reconciliation in post-conflict Rwanda. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines quantitative surveys and qualitative ethnographic methods, including interviews and participant observation, to assess the impact of these healing practices. The results indicate that 68% of participants experienced emotional healing, and 60% reported improved social relationships after engaging in traditional healing rituals. These practices, emphasizing collective rituals, storytelling, and spiritual ceremonies, were found to foster social cohesion and rebuild trust within communities. The findings suggest that traditional healing plays a crucial role in complementing modern psychological therapies and offers a culturally relevant framework for post-conflict trauma recovery. The study highlights the potential of integrating traditional practices into national reconciliation efforts and mental health systems.
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