Book “And I Live On”

And I Live On
The Resilience of Rwandan Genocide Survivors of Sexual Violence
Anne-Marie de Brouwer, Sandra Ka Hon Chu, Eef je de Volder & Samer Muscati (eds) (2019) (256 pages, English, soft copy)

In the 100 days of genocide that ravaged the small East Central African nation of Rwanda between April and July 1994, approximately 1 million Tutsi and moderate Hutu were killed, and an estimated 250,000 to 500,000 women and girls were raped, as well as an unknown number of men and boys. Almost all Rwandan women who survived the genocide against the Tutsi were victims of sexual violence or were profoundly affected by it, and an astounding 70 per cent of survivors are living with hiv. And I Live On features searing testimonials from Rwandan survivors of the genocide 15 and 25 years after the horrific events of 1994. Through their narratives and Samer Muscati’s powerful portraits, these women and one man bear witness to the crimes committed in their country and to the suffering they continue to endure. The testimonials also showcase the survivors’ extraordinary strength, courage and resilience—challenging the stigma they face both as survivors of sexual violence and as people living with hiv. In speaking out, they provide a glimpse into the worlds of survivors living with the genocide’s legacy decades after a conflict. Their stories, along with the accompanying text and illustrations, make an indelible impact.

The stories featured in And I Live On are told by genocide survivors supported by Solace Ministries, the partner organization of Bèkske in Rwanda. These survivors have gone through similar horrific events as the 75 coffee entrepreneurs whom Bèkske supports have. With, amongst other things, the support of Solace Ministries and initiatives such as Bèkske they live on and thrive.