On October 10th, Aegis Trust staff at the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Rwanda came together to mark World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme, set by the World Health Organization (WHO), was “Mental Health at Work,” which emphasizes the critical relationship between employment and mental well-being, highlighting the necessity of maintaining a healthy balance between the two.
In his opening remarks, Aegis Trust’s CEO, Freddy Mutanguha, underscored the significance of prioritizing mental health, particularly given the nature of Aegis’ work. “We cannot change our history, nor the place where we work. However, we can adapt ourselves to both aspects. Working here at the memorial is distinct from working elsewhere, which makes it special,” he noted. He further stated, “Being aware of and taking care of our mental health should be a priority not just in the workplace but also in our homes and communities.”
To mark the occasion, Dr Uwihoreye Chaste, a renowned psychologist and the Country Director of Uyisenga Ni Imanzii, provided staff with valuable advice and best practices for enhancing mental health in the workplace.
Aegis staff also took the opportunity to reflect on personal and professional strategies for enhancing mental wellness, discussing the roles each individual plays in fostering a positive work environment. As we continue to navigate the challenges of our unique workspace and the dark subject matter we necessarily address, prioritizing mental health remains essential to the work of remembrance, peace and values education, and the prevention of mass atrocities.
