Rwanda National Police

The mayor of Ruhango District, Valens Habarurema has urged residents to break silence and report families experiencing conflicts. 

He also appealed to anyone facing domestic or gender based violence to open up adding that it helps institutions concerned to address the problem either by reconciling affected couples or ensuring that justice is served.

The mayor was addressing residents in Ruhango Sector as part of the Anti-GBV and child abuse week launched on Monday under the auspice of the 2018 Police Week to mark the Rwanda National Police 18th anniversary.

“Know and fight for your rights as a man or woman, but fight for the rights of children as well by reporting any human rights violations they face in your communities” Mayor Habarurema told the residents.

The District Police Commander of Ruhango, Senior Supt. Marc Gasangwa also appealed to them to play an active role in prevention of crimes like Gender Based Violence and to share timely information about anyone suspected to be involved in such crimes.

He observed that most cases related to GBV and child abuse remain unreported.

“There are laws to protect you, ensure that justice is served but also offered medical and psychological support to victims,” the DPC told the residents.

SSP Gasangwa enlightened them on the services offered by Isange One Stop Centre including free legal, psycho-socio and medical support to victims of GBV and child abuse.

He urged them to always call 112, 3029 0r 116, all toll-free lines to report any case of GBV and child abuse.