Help 450 Rwandan Prisoners to Become Peacebuilders

Date:  October 8_10, 2024

Location: Nyamagabe prison

Purpose:  To train 30 prisoners to become trainers capable of facilitating AVP workshops for others in the prison community.

Background

The Alternative to Violence Program (AVP) is an experiential workshop designed to develop conflict resolution skills and promote peaceful approaches to handling disputes. AVP workshops typically progress through three levels: Basic, Advanced, and ToT (Training of Trainers). The ToT training at Nyamagabe Prison aimed to equip 30 participants who had completed the Basic and Advanced levels with the skills to lead AVP workshops themselves.

this initiative aligns with AVP's overarching goal of empowering individuals to transform their lives and communities through nonviolence and reconciliation.

Training Activities

The training spanned three days and was structured to build the capacity of participants to lead workshops effectively. key sessions included:

1.  Introduction to Facilitation Skills:

    Participants learned about the role of a facilitator, effective communication techniques, and how to create a safe and inclusive learning environment.

2.  Transforming Power:

     This core AVP concept was revisited, emphasizing the ability to draw on inner strength to respond to conflict constructively.

3.  Practice Facilitation:

    Participants practiced leading sessions in small groups, receiving feedback from trainers and peers to refine their skills.

4.  Conflict Resolution Techniques:

Advanced methods for managing group dynamics and addressing challenging situations were discussed and practiced.

5. Workshop Planning and Management:

    Participants learned to organize and plan workshops, ensuring smooth implementation in the prison setting.

Testimonial

The transformative impact of the training was exemplified in the testimony of Yvette Ngendahimana, one of the participants:

"All lessons are good. Starting from Basic to Advanced level, I was impressed by the Transforming Power lesson most because I was transformed with it in my daily activities. with this training, my takeaway is the assignment of reconciling with myself. Even though I cannot reach the person I wronged or who wronged me, I learned that I could write a letter to assist me in making peace and relieving my grieved soul. As someone living in prison, this will help me heal the wound in my heart, and I will help others."

Yvette's testimony underscores the profound personal and communal impact AVP can have, especially in contexts like prisons where reconciliation and healing are critical.

Outcomes

1. Skill Development: All 30 participants successfully acquired facilitation skills and are now prepared to train others.

2. Increased Understanding: Participants gained a deeper understanding of nonviolent conflict resolution and self-reconciliation.

3. Empowerment: The training empowered participants to take on leadership roles within the prison, fostering a culture of peace and mutual support.

Conclusion

The ToT training at Nyamagabe Prison was a significant milestone in implementing the AVP program. By equipping participants with facilitation skills, the program has laid the foundation for sustainable peer-led workshops within the prison.

This initiative contributes to personal transformation among participants and strengthens the prison community's capacity for nonviolent conflict resolution, healing, and reconciliation.

Date: 15-17/May/2024

Location: Ngoma District Women's Prison, Eastern Province, Rwanda

Training Duration: 3 Days

Participants: 30 Women Inmates

This report details the Alternative to Violence Program (AVP) training conducted at Ngoma District Women's Prison in the Eastern Province of Rwanda. The training, held over three days, aimed to equip 30 women inmates with essential skills in nonviolent conflict resolution and problem-solving techniques. The program is part of a broader initiative to foster peaceful and constructive interactions among inmates and to support their reintegration into society upon release.

Training Objectives

The primary objectives of the AVP training were:

1. To introduce participants to the principles and practices of nonviolent communication.

2. To develop problem-solving skills and techniques for conflict resolution.

3. To encourage personal growth and transformation through experiential learning.

4. To build a supportive community among participants, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

Training Methodology

The training was conducted using interactive and participatory methods,

including:

1.  Group discussions:  Facilitated sessions where participants shared personal experiences and explored conflict resolution strategies.

2.  Role-playing:  Simulated scenarios to practice nonviolent communication and conflict-solving skills.

3.  Team-building exercises:  Activities designed to enhance trust and cooperation among participants.

4.  Reflection sessions:  Opportunities for participants to reflect on their experiences and the applicability of the skills learned.

Key Training Topics

The training covered a range of topics, including:

1.  Understanding Violence:  Exploring the roots and consequences of violence in personal and community settings.

2.  Nonviolent Communication:  Techniques for expressing needs and resolving conflicts without aggression.

3.  Problem-solving skills:  Strategies for identifying issues, analyzing options, and implementing peaceful solutions.

4.  Building a Community of Peace:  Encouraging mutual support and respect among participants.

Outcomes

The AVP training was successful, with participants demonstrating:

1. Increased awareness of the causes and effects of violence.

2. Improved skills in nonviolent communication and conflict resolution.

3. A strong sense of community and support among the participants.

4. Positive feedback on the relevance and impact of the training.

Challenges and Recommendations 

Challenges:

1. Limited resources for follow-up sessions and continued support.

2. Some participants found certain concepts challenging to grasp initially.

Recommendations:

1. Organize periodic follow-up sessions to reinforce the skills learned.

2. Provide additional support materials, such as booklets or pamphlets, for participants to refer to after the training.

3. Consider extending the training duration to allow more time for practice and reflection.

Conclusion

The three-day Avp training at Ngoma District Women's Prison was a significant success, providing 30 women inmates with valuable skills for peaceful conflict resolution. The participants were engaged and committed to applying what they learned, contributing to a more peaceful environment within the prison and beyond. continued support and follow-up will be essential to sustain the positive outcomes achieved.