Bugesera, July 2026 – Bugesera Correctional Facility (CF) celebrated the successful completion of a 15-week Sociotherapy Healing Dialogue program that ran from March to July 2026, marking an important milestone in promoting rehabilitation, healing, and social reintegration among inmates.

Out of 36 inmates enrolled in the cohort, 34 participants successfully completed all sessions, demonstrating strong commitment to the healing and personal development process.

The closing event was characterized by inspiring healing songs, powerful personal testimonies, and reflections from participants and facilitators. Participants shared how the program had positively transformed their lives by improving their mental and emotional well-being, restoring hope, fostering reconciliation and forgiveness, and strengthening their readiness to reintegrate into their communities.

Many participants highlighted the value of the safe and supportive dialogue space, which enabled them to build trust, reflect on their experiences, and develop healthier relationships with others.

Speaking during the event, Bugesera CF staff expressed their sincere appreciation to Hoffnungs for its partnership and support in implementing the program. They acknowledged the significant contribution of sociotherapy in addressing psychosocial challenges faced by inmates and supporting their rehabilitation journey.

The staff also emphasized the growing need to expand mental health and psychosocial support interventions within correctional facilities to meet the increasing needs of inmates and enhance successful rehabilitation and community reintegration outcomes.

The successful completion of the program reflects the transformative power of healing dialogue in restoring dignity, strengthening resilience, and creating pathways for lasting positive change.

Together, through healing, hope, and reconciliation, lives can be transformed and communities strengthened.