Implemented by partner organisation THARS, the initiative uses Community-Based Sociotherapy to help trauma survivors and refugees process deep emotional pain, restore dignity, and rebuild their lives through group healing sessions.

The visit focused on witnessing how safe spaces for reflection and listening enable participants to navigate daily challenges and move past traumatic histories.

According to a statement posted on LinkedIn by Institute for Community Based Sociotherapy (ICBS), in Muyinga, participants shared how something as simple and powerful as being listened to, or listening to others, has helped them process strong emotions and navigate daily challenges.

At the Musenyi refugee site, stories of resilience stood out. Participants spoke about the traumatic experiences they have endured and how the group sessions have helped them confront pain, release heavy emotions, and rediscover a sense of hope.

“When I reached Burundi, I thought my life had ended. My wife had been killed after being raped. We were attacked again during her burial, and I fled alone, without my children. One participant shared during a visit.

“I turned to alcohol to cope with the pain. When I was invited to join the group, I first asked if there would be money. But I eventually joined,” they called.

Participant further noted that they were cared and relieved from past experiences.

“In the group, people listened to me. Slowly, I began to feel relieved. When we reached the phase of new life orientation, I regained hope. I realized that life is still possible, despite what I went through,” they noted.