English
Kinyarwanda
On Tuesday, June 23, the 14th Police Women Convention was opened at the Rwanda National Police (RNP) General Headquarters in Kacyiru, bringing together police officers, government officials, and development partners to discuss leadership, empowerment, and career development for women in policing.
Held under the theme, "Empowered to Serve: Women in Policing," the two-day convention serves as a platform to assess progress in promoting gender equality, women's empowerment, and professional development within the Rwanda National Police.
The convention was officially opened by the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF), Consolée Uwimana. It was also attended by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), CG Felix Namuhoranye, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Rwanda, Dr. Fatmata Lovetta Sesay.
In her opening remarks, Minister Uwimana commended the Rwanda National Police leadership for creating an environment that encourages women to join the force and contribute to peace and security both nationally and internationally.
"The growing number of women in the police force reflects the confidence placed by our leadership in women's abilities and their invaluable contribution to national and international security," she said.
Minister Uwimana noted that women officers bring unique qualities that strengthen policing and improve community relations.
"I salute every woman in uniform here today. You are not only protectors of the law but also role models for the next generation. Women in the police force bring more than enforcement—they bring empathy, resilience, and a unique ability to bridge communities and law enforcement," she added.
While addressing the convention, IGP CG Felix Namuhoranye emphasized the importance of reviewing progress made on commitments aimed at advancing women in policing.
"Today's forum should be a moment of reflection—reflecting on what we discussed in previous editions to ensure that we are making tangible progress in implementation. This will help us determine where we have achieved our targets and where additional effort is required," he said.
The police chief encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions and focus on practical actions that can further strengthen women's role in policing and improve service delivery.
The UNDP Resident Representative, Dr. Fatmata Lovetta Sesay, praised Rwanda's continued efforts to promote gender equality and create opportunities for women to participate fully in national development, including within the security sector.
Dr. Sesay highlighted the challenges faced by policewomen as they balance professional responsibilities with family obligations.
"After becoming a policewoman, one faces many barriers and challenges associated with serving in the police force. She still has to balance her professional responsibilities with household duties and raising children simply because she is also a wife and a mother." she said.
She also stressed the importance of partnerships and teamwork in achieving meaningful progress.
"We cannot go far without partnership and working together. Everyone indeed has abilities in different ways, but when we combine our strengths and efforts, we achieve much more," Dr. Sesay added.
The convention features discussions and experience-sharing sessions focused on leadership, professional growth, institutional development, and strategies to further advance women's participation in leadership, policing, and community development.
