High school students in Musanze District have pledged to show solidarity in the fight against violence against women and children, as well as cooperate with law enforcers to report cases of gender-based-violence (GBV) whenever they occur in their neighborhoods.

They made the pledge during an awareness campaign initiated by Rwanda National Police (RNP) to discuss anti-GBV initiatives with the youth and students across the country.

The campaign, held at Kabaye Secondary School, Muhoza Sector, Musanze District, on Monday, attracted more than 400 students.

In her remarks, the Musanze District Community Liaison Officer, Inspector of Police Saudah Mujawamariya, told the students that they should strive to ensure that all forms of violence, be it in their homes or communities where they live, are eliminated.

"As the young generation, you should take action and be vocal against GBV by addressing behavioural issues that encourage violence against women and children. Always be active in national campaigns to promote women’s rights to peace and freedom from violence,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of other students, Vianney Izadufasha, a senior five student, commended RNP for reaching out to the students and pledged to work through their anti-crime club to fight against GBV and sensitise their community about the dangers brought about by the scourge.

"I have attended several campaigns by Police against GBV and I now know that I have a crucial role to play to make Rwanda free of any form of violence against women. I have gained so much confidence since I participated in the campaigns to end violence against women and children,” Izadufasha said.

RNP conducts several initiatives against GBV, and has anti-GBV desks at all police stations in the country to offer efficient and timely responses to reported cases.

In July, in a bid to demonstrate a strong commitment to gender equality, and further boost the fight against GBV, police joined the "HeForShe” global campaign for gender equality initiated by UN Women, whose goal is to engage men and boys as agents of change for the achievement of gender equality.

In a similar spirit, early this month, the Prime Minister, Anastase Murekezi, launched a three months long anti-GBV and Child Abuse Campaign.

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