A Board Member's Reflection

Kevin D. Batt (Ubuntu Center for Peace US-Board Chair) brings extensive experience and deep connections to Rwanda. Having visited communities impacted by the Ubuntu Center for Peace’s community-based social healing program, he shares powerful insights from his experience and how these visits have strengthened his commitment to UCP’s mission.

Kevin’s Testimony:

“I have been honored to join the Ubuntu Center for Peace in witnessing healing circles in both Kamonyi and Kirehe Districts of Rwanda. We traveled rough roads to reach remote villages and were greeted by Community Healing Assistants (CHAs) and host families. We commenced standing in a circle and were led by the CHAs in rhythmic body movements and mindful breathing.  Soon, participants were invited, one by one, to the center of the circle to tell their stories.  With whispered translations from Dr. Niyonzima,  I followed along.  One man with a large scar across the back of his head from a machete blow in the violence years ago had persistent nightmares and sleeplessness since then, but found his sleep now greatly improved.  A widow overcame her loneliness in the healing circle.  Another woman resolved conflicts with her neighbor.  All supported each other, wiping away tears, as we listened to story after story.  I came away deeply moved by the power of community healing.”