On April 28–29, 2025, ALARM-Congo’s Peacebuilding Department conducted a transformative trauma healing and peacebuilding workshop for 34 participants—comprising lawyers and church leaders—in Bukavu, South Kivu. Held at the 26th Free Methodist Church, the training addressed the growing need for psychological support in a region heavily affected by conflict and insecurity. Using the Bible and a trauma healing syllabus, facilitator Mr. Timothy Byamungu guided participants through topics such as trauma symptoms, secondary trauma, burnout, prevention strategies, and healing mechanisms. The session concluded with mental and physical exercises for self-care and detraumatization.

Participants reported deep emotional impact and renewed perspective. Rev. Kimbiti Ndashwa emphasized the workshop as a much-needed remedy for pastors and believers in Bukavu. Mrs. Adèle Bisharhwa, a lawyer, shared how the training helped her reframe her relationship with her estranged son, now viewing his behavior through the lens of trauma. Others, like Magistrate Rodrigue Musombwa and lawyer Saleh Mitati, testified to the training’s healing impact on their personal struggles and professional relationships.

The key outcomes included greater self-awareness among participants, new capacity to support trauma victims in their churches and legal work, and a strong call for continued training. Participants recommended extending future sessions, offering printed materials, and expanding content to include leadership, mediation, and conflict resolution. This workshop affirms ALARM’s commitment to healing, peace, and justice through empowered and informed leaders.