Army life

Kamanzi Jean Baptiste tells the story of his life's hardships to his younger brother, Ngango Jean Bosco, who has not lived through such times as he has. Kamanzi Jean Baptiste shares with his brother details about his life such as how he joined the army because of abuse and hunger at home, or how he became handicapped and still decided to go to school at the age of 22 with peers who were 12 years old. Ngango Jean Bosco listens to his brother’s words and continues to ask more questions to which Kamanzi Jean Baptiste is happy to answer.

Rukiriza Antoine wants to join the army, so he decides to ask his father, Gasani Gerarid, about his own military service. Gasani Gerarid joined the Burundian army after he fled Rwanda during the 1970’s. He says that it was a very good experience, so he supports his son’s decision to fight for his country. However, Gasani Gerarid also stresses the importance of working hard and supporting a family. Even if Rukiriza Antoine is unable to join the army, his father says that he must find a way to use his skills to make a living.

Pastor Ruhagararabahurg Eric describes to Munganyinka Daima Lydia how he made a fulfilling life for himself. After joining the army and fighting to protect the President, Pastor Eric realized that his true passion lies with protecting and helping others. He then became a man of God and devoted his life to helping street children find a better life in Rwanda. He describes to Daima Lydia how this journey toward faith allowed him to realize the significance of faith in reconciliation for Rwanda; forgiveness must be coupled with repentance in order to begin the healing.