Rwanda National Police

Seventeen Police officers, on September 10, started a three-day exercise on how to address challenges of gender-based violence and child abuse.

The training is taking place at the Rwanda National Police headquarters in Kacyiru.

The officers are set to head anti-GBV and child abuse centres commonly known as Isange One Stop Centre, established in different parts of the country.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Dr. Wilson Rubanzana, the coordinator for Isange One Stop Centers and Specialized Medical Programmes in Rwanda National Police presided over the official start of the training.

He said issues related to GBV and child abuse are still relatively high and need special attention and that this training is meant to address such challenges.

During the three day training, participants will cover key areas like child protection and anti-GBV laws, criminal procedure, techniques of interview, exhibit management and handling and techniques and of investigating GBV cases.

ACP Rubanzana challenged participants to take the training seriously to ensure they acquire the necessary skills to fulfill their new assignments.

The Rwanda National Police, he said, has so far established eight Isange One stop Centers which operate in different district hospitals across the country and plans are underway to establish others in all hospitals across the country by 2017.

Liliane Bora, one of the course participants, said the training is very vital and has come in a time when it is most needed.

“I have been receiving and helping victims of GBV in Ruhengeri hospital (Musanze District) but I was lacking skills and this training will help me a great deal,” she said.

Isange One Stop Centre started as a pilot project in 2009 to address challenges of gender and domestic violence and child abuse which were high.

It is a holistic approach that provides free medical, legal and psycho-socio services to GBV victims.

The centre, in 2012, received the United Nations Public Services Award (UNPSA) for its outstanding efforts in promoting Gender Responsive Delivery.