Rwanda National Police

Police in Kayonza District have urged local leaders, residents and social groups to promote and protect the rights of children and nurture them into responsible citizens.

The call was made by the Vice mayor in charge of social affairs, Jean Damascene Harelimana during a community meeting held on April 21.

The vice mayor told the gathering that parents and leaders should always tackle and report all issues that threaten the rights of children in homes and their communities.

The District Community Liaison Officer (DCLO), Assistant Inspector of Police (AIP) Leonille Mujawamariya, said: "Rights are everything a child should have...we have to think about rights in terms of what is the best for them in any situation and protect them from any harm.”

She said some children rights are often abused due to ignorance of some parents and that the "voice of the child must be heard and respected in all matters concerning them."

“It wouldn't do any harm if a parent first consulted their children before making decisions that will affect them.”