EASTERN PROVINCE

RWAMAGANA — The office of the Ombudsman has embarked on an awareness campaign to enlighten residents on their rights and it’s activities.

Addressing Kigabiro residents this Thursday, Anaclet Nzabamwita of the Ombudsman’s office said the campaign was prompted by the problems emerging from upcountry residents.

"Most of the cases and complaints we have been receiving are related to family property, land wrangles and complaints about court proceedings,” Nzabamwita told residents.

Talking about family property, Nzabamwita explained that under Rwandan family law, couples specify how their property would be owned before they marry. He also enlightened residents about the equality of all children.

"Unlike before, girls and boys have equal rights to their parents’ property,” Nzabamwita said.

On property ownership, he said couples can either decide to jointly own all their property, part of it or to live together while each one owns his or her property.

He noted that earlier arrangement of property ownership helps to prevent future conflicts emanating from property ownership.

Nzabamwita explained to residents other laws concerning family property including what he called inheritance law. He explained how a will is made and laws concerning donating out property.

Moses Katusime another member of the delegation explained to residents about land law and court procedures. He observed the land law of 2005 has helped a lot in solving land wrangles which are common in the Rwandan society.

Katusime told residents that they have a right to land ownership, but if government wishes to take the land for development in the interest of the public, it can compensate the evicted owner.

A resident who gave his name as Murekeraho appealed for establishment of the office of the Ombudsman at district and sector levels so that residents can get easy access to their services.

According to Nzabamwita the sensitization campaign that started in the Eastern Province, would be extended to other provinces countrywide.

Ends