Professionals from various fields, including doctors, nurses, police officers, legal aid personnel, and crime investigators associated with Isange One Stop Center (IOSC), are actively engaged in a comprehensive multidisciplinary training programme at the Regional Centre of Excellence on Gender-Based Violence and Child Abuse.

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This initiative is geared towards enhancing the quality of services provided at Isange One Stop Center.

Jeannot Ruhunga, the Secretary General of RIB, on Tuesday, October 10, emphasized Rwanda&039;s unique approach to tackling Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

He said: "In many countries, when faced with GBV, individuals follow a complex process, involving police reports, medical expenses, and psychological care. However, in Rwanda, we offer all these services in one place, free of charge.

"Isange One Stop Center brings together professionals from various fields, including doctors, nurses, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, and RIB officials. Our goal during this training is to enhance their expertise in handling GBV victims and foster a collaborative spirit among them. The synergy of their collective knowledge makes a formidable team.”

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Speaking about Isange's presence, he explained: "Currently, all district hospitals are equipped with Isange One Stop Centers, staffed with doctors, psychologists, GBV officers, crime investigators, and legal aid officers. While we treat GBV as a crime, we recognize the critical need for comprehensive care before victims can file reports. This care includes medical and psychological support, psychotherapy, and ongoing follow-ups, especially for those who may face abandonment due to societal beliefs."

"Our professionals come from diverse backgrounds, yet they work together to address the same victims. To ensure a harmonious and effective work environment, these training sessions are crucial. The knowledge we impart during these training sessions significantly enhances their ability to provide better services."

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Aline Umutoni, the Director General of Family Promotion and Child Protection at the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, acknowledged the persistence of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Rwanda.

She said: "GBV takes various forms and affects individuals of all ages and genders. It remains a challenge in our country. However, over time, people have become more aware of the services provided by Isange One Stop Center (IOSC), and they are increasingly seeking help."

"The most common types of GBV we encounter today include physical violence, sexual violence, psychological abuse, and socio-economic violence. At IOSC, we are committed to assisting victims of all these forms of violence. Our multidisciplinary teams prioritize listening to each victim&039;s unique experience before determining the appropriate assistance required."

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"We cannot force victims to speak out, but we offer unwavering support, encouraging them to share their experiences when they feel ready. Isange serves as a safe haven, offering medical, psychological, legal, and justice services all under one roof," she said.

Belyse Ishimwe, a medical doctor at Remera Rukoma IOSC, dedicated three years to assisting GBV victims.

Reflecting on her experience, she said: "Medicine is dynamic, constantly evolving. In our efforts to assist GBV victims, we have adapted by extending our evidence collection period from three to five days, allowing us to better support those affected."

She recalled challenges in the past when doctors struggled to balance their responsibilities in various departments.

"I've heard that steps are being taken to assign doctors specifically to Isange. I truly hope this materializes because the work we do here is sensitive, and having dedicated medical professionals would greatly enhance our ability to provide comprehensive care."

Currently, Rwanda has established Isange One Stop Centers at 50 hospitals nationwide.

In addition, several health centers have specialized GBV clinics.

Healthcare workers at various health centers throughout the country received training in providing assistance to GBV victims, strengthening the network of support available to those in need.