As Rubavu District celebrated the World Population Day yesterday, women in the area urged government to step up the family planning campaign.

Rwanda’s population is estimated at 11 million people with Rubavu district recording a high population growth rate.

"This is an important day for us to reflect on the challenges we face in our homes due to the large family sizes,” said Francoise Mukakalisa, an area resident.

She noted that families still lack information on family planning and end up producing children they cannot provide for.

"Family planning countrywide is projected at 45 percent, and although it is something good, the number is still low and a lot more should be done,” added Mukakalisa.

Victoria Akyeampong, the country representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), reiterated the call to have more Rwandan practice family planning.

"A good number of women are now using modern contraceptives but it should also sink down to the lowest level of communities,” said Akyeampong.

Pascasia Mukantaganda, said that men should also be sensitised on family planning since they are often responsible for the many children produced.

"Men sometimes shun contraceptives regardless of women’s effort,” she lamented

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