Rwanda National Police (RNP) has reached out to residents of Rwimbogo Sector, Rusizi District, to discuss partnership in fighting gender-based violence (GBV), as well as find ways of helping families to resolve gender-related challenges.

The Police, through their Mobile Police Station Vehicle service, also recorded complaints from residents in Karenge Cell yesterday.

Thereafter, over 2,000 residents, local leaders and police officers gathered to discuss measures to advance the rights of women and fight against GBV and crime in communities.

The head of Quality Service and Inspection Unit at the CID, CIP Alexis Gasana, told the meeting that overcoming crimes against women, girls and children such as rape, torture, child neglect and human trafficking requires collective efforts.

"Anything that results in physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering should be fought by everyone in society. Such acts are a challenge to public health and a barrier to social and economic development. They undermine the safety and dignity of individuals,” he said.

"As leaders and members of the society, it is vital to promote the rights of all Rwandans and eliminate the harmful effects of GBV on individuals and communities.”

Theoneste Bigirimana, the executive secretary of Rwimbogo Cell, urged the residents to work with the Police in bringing GBV perpetrators to book.

"Always attend community meetings and help to increase awareness about GBV. We should devise proactive ways to provide counselling and help to victims of GBV,” he said.

Ruth Mukangarambe, one of the residents who filed a complaint through the Mobile Police Station Vehicle, revealed that, for long, she had been embroiled in property wrangles with her spouse but the Police have since taken over the matter.

"My husband was misusing our assets and selling them to buy alcohol without any regard for the wellbeing of our children. I am grateful that the Police are following up on this case,” she said.

The Police Mobile Station Vehicle service was first rolled out in Bugesera and Kamonyi districts in January and has since served thousands of citizens in the countryside.

Police officers who travel with the vehicles also provide education and sensitisation to residents on their rights, freedoms and where to report specific complaints.

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