Police have joined hands with the National Women Council (NWC) to call for an end to gender based violence (GBV) .

The women council serves as a social forum where girls and women share ideas on what can be done to address challenges facing them and enhance their participation in the country’s development.

In a general meeting that brought together over 150 members of NWC in Nyarugenge District on May 17, which was also attended by police officers serving in the district, Senator Perine Mukankusi, urged women to exploit the opportunity of equality presented by Rwanda’s leadership and ensure that their rights are respected.

"Rwanda is at the forefront of championing women rights, therefore, we must come together to denounce GBV crimes and ensure that we collaborate with Police and other institutions to uproot such vices from society,” she said.

"Let us work together in analysing our challenges and encourage all women to participate in the development of Rwanda without facing any discrimination.”

The Mayor of Nyarugenge, Solange Mukasonga, told participants to sensitise women on patriotism and knowing their rights.

"We all have a duty to enhance women’s ability to carry out developmental activities without the fear of facing GBV. Let us endeavor to provide timely information to Police so that they can arrest any suspected offenders in society,” she said.

The District Community Liaison Officer for Nyarugenge, Inspector of Police Claude Budaraza, noted that caring for victims of GBV is essential in overcoming the scourge, noting that specific crimes such as sexual assault and human trafficking should be tackled collectively.

"Girls and women are the common victims of sexual assault and human trafficking. That is why all residents in communities should come together to assist victims and also collaborate with Police and other partners to ensure that justice is served,” she said.