I was shocked and dismayed to read of an 18 year old boy raping and murdering a girl of eight. The child was gathering firewood – why was she not in school?

But then it’s very likely that even if she was at home, she would not have been safe from harm.

Rwandan children, a recent Action Aid International report informs, are at risk even when at home or in school, the very places they ought to be protected.

Why are we abusing our children? Worldwide children’s basic needs should be met. Furthermore every child ought to be provided with an environment in which he or she can reach their full potential. This should be the rule, not the exception.

Our country cannot afford to be a save haven for criminals of this nature.

Nyarutarama