MONROVIA – Dr. Antoine Rutayisire, a prominent figure in national reconciliation and the current team leader for African Enterprises in Rwanda, delivered a poignant keynote address at Liberia’s National Healing, Reconciliation, and Unity Program held at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex Saturday, July 5.
The event, themed, “Healing Our Past, Building Our Tomorrow, Together,” aims to bridge the divisive gaps left by years of conflict in Liberia and promote unity among its citizens.
In his heartfelt speech, Dr. Rutayisire shared his profound experiences as a genocide survivor from Rwanda, a nation that witnessed unimaginable atrocities leading to the loss of over one million lives in just 100 days.
Drawing parallels between Liberia’s history of civil strife and his own country’s struggles, he emphasized the critical need for deep, communal healing and the acknowledgment of past traumas.
“I come in a spirit of humility and sympathy,” he said, recounting his own painful childhood experiences of loss and displacement. “Let those who feel pain at this moment of remembrance know that you are not alone! We have been there, and let me tell you, we can walk from there and live better.”
Dr. Rutayisire’s address was met with both emotional resonance and applause. He commended former Presidents Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and George Weah for their roles in fostering a peaceful political environment that has allowed this moment of reckoning to occur.
“Healing and reconciliation are not very popular agenda!” he stated, acknowledging the challenges leaders face when addressing uncomfortable truths. “We cannot ignore our past; we cannot escape from ourselves. We must dare to ask tough questions.”
The speech urged attendees to confront the painful legacies of ethnic divisions and political violence, emphasizing that genuine healing is a collective responsibility rooted in self-examination.
Drawing from his experiences in Rwanda, Dr. Rutayisire outlined a vision for Liberia based on an inclusive approach to reconciliation that holds all sectors of society accountable.
“National Healing and Reconciliation is a very long journey; it is a marathon, not a one-hundred-meter dash,” he said, highlighting that true transformation requires patience and ongoing commitment from individuals and institutions alike.
His call to action for community engagement and strategic planning resonated well with the audience, instilling hope for a more unified future.
As the program continues, Liberians reflect on Dr. Rutayisire’s message, recognizing the importance of healing in rebuilding trust and unity among diverse communities. This initiative not only serves to recognize the pains of the past but also aims to inspire a collective commitment to fostering a peaceful and resilient society.
The day’s discussions and activities provide a stepping stone for many Liberians looking to engage in the long and difficult process of reconciling with their country’s turbulent history.
The government’s commitment to this healing journey signifies a hopeful path forward, embracing the spirit of unity and collaboration as the bedrock of national recovery.
