GIPOROSA, RWANDA —
The Rwandan genocide left behind an estimated 400,000 orphans. Some, now adults, found refuge in the Kigali slum Giporoso. Aid organizations raise money for Giporoso’s genocide survivors with street performances, but their problems remain overwhelming.
“My name is Negenzi Ali. I’m 23-years-old. Since 1997 I was in this Giporoso, alone, because I am orphan from Genocide. Have no dad, no mum, no sisters," said Ali.
“I decided to be a tattoo maker," he said. "Sometimes I made [for] the guys who need tattoo for genocide: ‘Never Again’.”
“When they make the tattoo and some guys decide to give me drugs …
… or sex.”
“My name is ‘Janet Jackson’," said Kayitesi Jeannette.
Photo Gallery:
Orphans of the Rwanda Genocide
The Rwandan genocide happened 20 years ago, but the trauma experienced by its survivors still lies close to the surface.
“Guys here in Giborosa , most of them are infected with HIV. My name is Kuitonda David. I am 24-years-old. I’m orphan by genocide.
"I work here, on pool table [hall]. Sometimes my friends are upset when they haven’t anywhere to sleep. I accept and I bring them home," he said.
“Also the gangsters who killed people to take their materials, doing like that," said Ali.
“I am Shakoul. I am after [more than] 20-years-old. I am editor in cinematography. And I try to work hard to make evolution because our country is needing people who can try to work hard. I like this picture because it reminds me, where we was, where we come from," he said.
“Sometimes, I used to pray in my room because I have many things I have to ask my God," said David.
“I beg my Allah to give me one million dollars to help the children I see on the streets," said Ali.
