English
Kinyarwanda
The Rwanda National Police (RNP) nationwide campaign against gender-based violence (GBV) and child abuse continued in the Southern Province on April 22 as the force further consolidates strategies to fight and prevent the vices.
While speaking at the awareness event in Nyanza District, the Governor of the Southern Province, Alphonse Munyentwari, lauded the country's leadership for its "visionary guidance" and hands-on strategies to promote gender equality and eliminate all forms of GBV, which paves way for such community awareness programmes.
He urged Rwandans to work together against the scourge of GBV and Child abuse.
"GBV affects individuals, families and also hampers the development of the country. The main challenge we have now is that some people still do not understand the gravity and negative consequences of GBV. We all have a duty to ensure that everyone understands their role in ending this crime," he said.
"We thank RNP for championing this campaign which among other mechanisms shall help us to continue enhancing public awareness and thus lead to the prevention of GBV and and child abuse, and its consequences."
Deputy Commissioner General of Police (DCGP) Stanley Nsabimana, who noted that RNP recognizes GBV as a serious threat that requires collective response.
"We should continue working together to bring an end to crimes of GBV and child abuse. Important as well, residents should always discuss among themselves and find solutions to persistent challenges that they face as a way of dealing with the root cause," he said.
Abdullah Murenzi, the Mayor of Nyanza District, pointed out that drug abuse and drunkenness are major causes of GBV and child abuse, and called upon residents to shun consuming them in order to live in harmony with one another.
His message was echoed by the Coordinator of the National Women Commission in Nyanza District, Claire Uwumuremyi, who challenged parents to have a primary role in preventing GBV by ensuring that their children are protected from criminals that introduce them to drugs and other illicit behaviors.
The Anti-GBV campaign under the theme "Responsibility for All" was jointly organized by Netherlands Embassy, One UN and Rwanda National Police, it was officially launched last week in Burera District, Northern Province and is expected to be extended to all provinces countrywide.
