Gender-based violence (GBV) and violence against women and girls (VAWG) have devastating consequences for individuals, communities, and societies.

In the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, Rwanda has made remarkable progress in promoting gender equality and preventing GBV.

According to the 2022 Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF) Annual Report, victims are provided with a full range of health, psychological, economic, security, and legal services to improve their wellbeing and help them deal with the incident and mitigate further GBV risks. Services also include the reintegration of victims into their communities.?

These efforts not only safeguard the rights of women and girls but also positively impact mental health and foster overall peace within the country. However, the Rwanda Investigation Bureau statistics indicate that the number of GBV cases have been increasing. The number of GBV cases reported has increased to 12,804 currently from 4,947 in 2017, mainly as a result of decentralization of services to prevent and respond to GBV, including through Isange One Stop Centers operating in 44 district hospitals countrywide, Isange mobile vans and health centers. In addition, the National Public Prosecution Authority has recently established an online Sex Offenders’ Registry.? ?

Violence, particularly targeted towards women and girls, leaves behind deep emotional scars. Survivors of GBV are at a significantly higher risk of developing mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and even suicidal tendencies. By tackling GBV and VAWG, Rwanda takes a crucial step towards preventing such trauma and addressing the underlying mental health challenges faced by survivors. Rwanda has also taken strides in developing mental health services and support systems. By investing in mental health infrastructure, providing counseling services, and training mental health professionals, the Government and civil society organizations (CSOs) demonstrate our commitment to addressing mental health issues resulting from GBV.

Access to mental health care can improve the well-being and resilience of survivors, enabling them to rebuild their lives and contribute actively to society.? ? These initiatives need to go hand in hand with justice. Rwanda's commitment to prosecuting perpetrators of gender-based violence strengthens the rule of law and provides a sense of justice to survivors. When perpetrators are held accountable, it not only leads to closure for survivors but also creates a societal deterrent against future acts of violence. Moreover, empowering women and girls economically and socially also contributes to mental well-being and serves as a catalyst for positive change.

Last year the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion Prof. Jeannette Bayisenge called on all to join hands in addressing GBV by promptly reporting incidents.

“We cannot end Gender-Based Violence if we don't break the silence, overcome stigma and report cases to authorities for prompt response and follow-up. Protecting and caring for victims of GBV takes collective efforts, no institution or individual alone can eliminate this impediment to full rights, gender equality and development efforts,” she said.? ?

Preventing GBV and VAWG fosters an environment that challenges deeply rooted gender norms and promotes healthy and respectful relationships. Through education and awareness programs, Rwanda encourages discussions about gender equality, consent, and the importance of non-violence. These efforts break the harmful cycle of violence and pave the way for future generations to grow up in a society free from gender-based discrimination and violence.? ?

Gender equality and reduced violence against women play a significant role in building sustainable peace. Societies where women have equal opportunities and are free from violence are more likely to experience stability and long-term peace. By addressing the root causes of violence, Rwanda's efforts create an environment that promotes social cohesion, encourages participation in decision-making processes, and ultimately contributes to national reconciliation and sustainable peace.? ?

Rwanda's commitment to preventing GBV and VAWG not only safeguards the rights and well-being of women and girls but also yields positive outcomes for mental health and peace. By addressing trauma, ensuring justice, providing support services, and fostering gender equality, Rwanda can pave the way for a brighter future where violence is eradicated, mental health is prioritized, and sustainable peace prevails.??