Rwanda National Police

Rwanda National Police (RNP) has warned the general public against using children in labour activities calling it “criminal and punishable by law.”

This comes after Police in Gakenke and Gatsibo districts found at least 30 minors in varied child labour activities.

At least 28 children were found in Muhondo market in Gakenke, where they were conducting commercial activities, including carrying luggage.

Two others aged 13 and 14, were found rearing cattle in Ruhuha Village, Simbwa Cell of Kabarore Sector in Gatsibo District.

The Police spokesperson for the Northern region, Chief Inspector of Police (CIP) Alexis Rugigana warned “people who kill the future of children for their selfish ends,”

“After Police caught the minors, their parents were located and a meeting with their children was held to educate them on their parental responsibilities. The victims (children) were also tutored on the importance of education and their rights,” CIP Rugigana stated.

“Children should be in school not conducting commercial activities in markets, homes, farmlands, tea plantations, mining or stone quarry concessions, and the law is clear on this and what happens when you are caught employing or using minors in such child labour acts,” he added.

“The child has right to adequate development and every parent has the responsibility to care for the child until they are of legal adult age to ensure appropriate child development.”