KIGALI - IMBUTO Foundation, under the patronage of First Lady Jeannette Kagame, yesterday held its first ever Parents-Teenagers Forum aimed at reviving the ideals of a healthy parent-teen relationship.

The forum themed "We Re-commit to Re-connect” was launched by Mrs. Kagame and drew over 150 teenagers and their parents.

Addressing the First Forum, the First Lady emphasized the need to have open debates between children and parents saying that parents play a significant role in laying the foundation of their children.

"A lot is changing in the relationship of parents and their children, and this has various effects on the growth of children. As days go by, it has been realised that children in their adolescence stage need more time with their parents,” said the First lady

"As Rwanda develops, there is a lot the nation is gaining. Parents should move to another level and consider committing enough time to their children”.

The First lady also  noted that some parents are living in denial and avoid knowing what their children are up to and that children are also meeting more temptations each days which in the end brings a divergence in understanding of each other’s needs.

"Becoming a parent is not something that comes instantly. It becomes easier when someone strategizes for it from childhood,” she continued to say.

"Raising a child is not something simple, but when we join efforts we can do it”.. 

The Mayor of Kigali City, Dr. Aisa Kirabo, said thathe best gift to mankind is a child.

"Our children are exposed to dangers and the only way to save them is by creating an open dialogue with them and advise them,” she said.

The UNFPA Deputy Country Representative, Cheikh Fall, said that the youth should become the power of advocacy in creating a change in the society and called on parents to ensure effective communication with their children.

The colourful function had four renowned speakers including Father Martin Mudenderi, Sen. Wellars Gasamagera and Sister Helène Nayituliki.

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