Rwanda National Police

Members of the National Women Council (NWC) in Gakenke District have been called to strengthen their efforts in the fight against gender-based-violence (GBV) by sensitizing their communities and working with law enforcers to curb the scourge.

The message was delivered on June 29 in a meeting held in Nganzo Cell, Gakenke Sector, which attracted over 200 members of NWC in the district.

The meeting was also attended by residents, local leaders and police officers operating in the area.

In his remarks, the Mayor of Gakenke, Deogratius Nzamwita noted that the Rwanda is renowned for championing women rights and asked members of NWC to utilize this good image by sensitizing women about their rights and being vocal and break silence against GBV whenever it occurs in society.

“We should work together as one unit and partner with Police to denounce GBV and any kind of discrimination that undermines the values of equality and sustainable development. In case of any GBV incident, report it very fast to police and to the local authority. This will send a strong message to perpetrators that their schemes will not succeed,” Nzamwita said.

The District Police Commander of Gakenke, Chief Inspector of Police Jean Bosco Ndayisabye commended the partnership between NWC and Rwanda national Police, and also reminded participants that sustainable development is built on foundation of peace and security – therefore – GBV must be uprooted since it is one of the causes of insecurity in any community.

“In many societies of the world, girls and women are very vulnerable to violence simply because there is no political and community will to uproot the challenge. In Rwanda, it is clear that the political will has enabled every Rwandan to understand their right and role in ending GBV,” CIP Ndayisabye said.

“We should all continue on this quest by being alert and responsive to protect women and children against any form of injustice and violence.”

He also called on local leaders to be vigilant against drug abuse and drunkenness which usually fuel GBV and other illegal acts that affect community peace and security.

Claudine Zaninka, the coordinator of NWC in the Northern Province, thanked police for its vigilance against GBV, and noted the positive influence brought about by the Isange One Stop Centers in providing free medical-legal services to victims of GBV.

She also called on all Rwandans to always advocate for the rights of women and educate women about their rights so that they can stand up for their rights whenever they face challenges of GBV.

The National Women Council serves as a platform where girls and women can share ideas and develop strategies to address challenges they face, enhance their participation in the country’s development and partner with police and other law enforcers to sustain peace and security.