A consultative meeting to discuss mechanisms to curb human trafficking and drug abuse in the country takes place today at Parliament Buildings in Kigali.

The meeting, to be officiated by the First Lady, Jeannette Kagame, will attract participants from government institutions, civil society organisations, international organisations, among others.

According to Police, 153 cases of human trafficking were registered since 2009, with the majority of the victims being young females below the age of 35.

The deputy commissioner of Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and Director of Interpol-Rwanda, ACP Tony Kuramba, on Tuesday, said the victims were taken to various countries like Uganda, Mozambique, Tanzania, United Arab Emirates (Dubai), Zambia, Malawi and Asian countries.

Today’s meeting is expected to help participants explore the seriousness of the problem and step up efforts to stamp out the vice, according to organisers.

Rwanda has been reported to serve as both a source and transit route for human traffickers.

Most Rwandans forced, coerced, or defrauded into labour and exploitative sex trade are initially trapped through promises for better jobs and education.

A recent UN report estimates that about 2.5 million people around the world are trapped in modern-day slavery.

What youth say

Jackie Lisa, 25, an International Relations scholar, said young people should think twice before engaging themselves in strange business.

"Many of us are desperate but this should not derial us from going through appropriate channels to acquire wealth,” Lisa said.

Stella Tushabe, 25, said it is sad that human trafficking is a growing vice.

"Teachers, parents and the government should step up efforts to stop this before it escalates into a bigger problem. Programmes to give the youth a chance to prosper should be put in place. Educative seminars, career guidance gatherings and anti-crime clubs should also be put in place to engage the youth during holidays,” Tushabe said.

Niyoyota Ramjaane, 26, a comedian, urged the government to help create more jobs for the youth.