Banderembako, Judith
Interviewee Age
75
Interviewee Gender
Female
Geographical Location(s) during the genocide
Gitega
Interview Date
2025
Summary of Oral History
Before the 1972 Genocide of Burundi, Banderembako said her community was filled with neighbors who were always willing to share and help one another. Their peaceful and welcoming way of life was shattered when a soldier arrived with a list of names of people who were to be collected and killed. Banderembako explained that people were snatched from their homes, forced to dig their graves, and then their bodies were tossed into the ground. If the victims refused to dig, the perpetrators would tie their limbs together and throw their bodies into a river. After their death, the victim’s homes were looted, and all their possessions were taken and divided among the perpetrators. She explained that she would appreciate a memorial but remains doubtful that this structure would help Burundians’ heel. Banderembako said she is concerned that the history of the genocide will negatively influence the youth, and she fears their hearts will become tainted with a lack of desire to reconcile. She lost her father, husband, and brother-in-law during this violent attack. However, Banderembako explained that as a Catholic, she must forgive.
Rights
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Recommended Citation
Banderembako, Judith, "Banderembako, Judith" (2025). 1972 Burundi Genocide – Oral Histories. 52.
https://neiudc.neiu.edu/burundi-oral-histories/52
