Following the revised law on persons and family, which formally recognises surrogacy in Rwanda, the topic has sparked varied opinions among the public. While some people are excited about the new possibilities that surrogacy brings, others are still pessimist. The New Times spoke to a few individuals to gather their perspectives on this development. ALSO READ: Surrogacy: Experts call for amendments to family law Vincent Sezibera, Director of the Centre for Mental Health at the University of Rwanda The surrogate mother might think, ‘I shared blood with this baby, so it’s mine,’ even though the genetic material comes from the biological parents. Similarly, the biological parents might struggle to feel fully connected to the child emotionally, perceiving the child as somewhat of a stranger. The surrogate mother’s attachment could be stronger compared to that of the genetic parents. It’s important to prepare both the surrogate mother and the biological parents psychologically for the transition. The surrogate mother might feel a sense of loss or grief when handing over the child, and both parties need to be ready to navigate this. The parents should also be prepared to handle potential societal judgment for not carrying the child themselves and find ways to raise the child in a supportive environment. Aimee Mireille Uwineza, specialist in obstetrics and gynecology It's great that surrogacy is now guided by law. This is a valuable technology, especially for parents who have struggled to conceive. However, we are not as developed as countries where surrogacy is a common practice and often treated as a business. For us, it’s still a long process. There should be counselling for both the parents and the surrogate mother to ensure they fully understand the process and avoid conflicts. One challenge, however, is the expense of the process. ALSO READ: Is surrogacy legal in Rwanda? Lawyers and doctors are confused Herbert Zziwa, Advocate of the High Court This law is a breakthrough for people who could not conceive through traditional means, as they can now turn to surrogacy. The most important aspect of the new law is the introduction of assisted reproduction through a written contract, which was needed. In 2020,there was a court case where a couple had to seek legal permission to proceed with surrogacy because there were no regulations in place. Now, it is a good thing that the rights of the biological parents, surrogate mother, and child are all legally protected. Florentine Mukarubayiza, a resident of Muhanga District I believe that if a couple decides to seek the help of a surrogate, it can be a solution for them. However, one potential issue is that the surrogate mother might develop an attachment to the child. She might feel, ‘I provided the environment for this baby to live and grow, so the child is mine.’ In some developed countries where surrogacy is common, the process is often kept secret, with the child sometimes never knowing the details of their birth. They handle it as a business, where surrogate mothers are paid, and I wonder if surrogate mothers in Rwanda will also be compensated. This might help prevent surrogate mothers from developing strong emotional attachments to the child. Even though surrogacy might have existed before, its still new to us, so we must consider the child’s well-being. If they find out later in life about their origins, it could lead to mental health issues. Parents will need to ensure that the child is raised with care and support. Overall, I think it's positive that we now have this technology, as long as everyone’s rights are respected throughout the process. Fidele Rutayisire, founder and executive director of the Rwanda Men's Resource Center (RWAMREC). Surrogacy is a sensitive issue that must be approached with caution. In many cases, it does not align with feminist principles, including the protection of women's rights, the promotion of gender equality, and respect for women's bodily autonomy. One of my main concerns about surrogacy is the potential for exploitation, especially when surrogates are from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Financial pressures can lead to coercion, making their choice less voluntary. While surrogacy might support gender equality in contexts where women have full autonomy, legal protections, and fair compensation, it can perpetuate gender inequalities in situations where women are economically or socially vulnerable, exploiting their vulnerabilities. Surrogacy should be avoided if the surrogate is not fully informed about the risks, implications, and her rights. Ethical concerns also arise when a woman feels compelled to become a surrogate due to financial desperation, and the arrangement should be reconsidered. This service must be carefully regulated and carried out with respect for the rights, dignity, and autonomy of all parties involved to ensure that it supports, rather than undermines, gender equality and human rights. Emelyne Muberabirori, a student at the University of Rwanda Surrogacy is a great advancement, especially for a developing country like ours. It shows how technology can bring new possibilities to families who might not have had other options. In a place where access to advanced medical procedures is growing, surrogacy offers hope and solutions. It's also a sign that our country is moving forward in healthcare, providing cutting-edge services that help people achieve their dreams of having a family. Angel De Merci Irafasha, a mother of one based in Muhanga Surrogacy is good if there are reasons for it, for example, if a woman cannot support pregnancy. However, for me, doing it is not possible. Supporting a baby for nine months is hard and involves love and pain. Giving out that child is not easy. Anitha Umutoni, a teacher based in Rwamagana I was happy with it (the legislation). Sometimes families would separate due to failure to give birth, but now, with the help of the law, families will be strengthened. In addition, there are some people who are poor but can give birth, and so, surrogacy can help them earn a living. However, the process should be done with truth and clarity. Racheal Kalisa, a translator based in Kicukiro I believe the new surrogacy legislation presents a major and positive advancement for our country. This law offers hope to many individuals dealing with infertility or reproductive challenges. It enables them to fulfil their dreams of parenthood despite biological limitations. I commend this forward-thinking initiative and hope it sets an example for other countries in the region. It’s a meaningful step towards making Rwanda a more inclusive and supportive society, where the dream of building a family is accessible to all. Alice Mukashyaka, a mother of one based in Muhanga People were facing reproductive challenges. This law gives them an opportunity to have children. The negative part though is that some people who don’t want to give birth by themselves may take advantage of it. Moris Mutsinzi, an international relations professional based in Kigali I agree with the law in the context of helping families with reproductive complications. However, looking at it in our cultural context as Rwandans, it is not something that we can advocate for. Surrogacy may contribute to mental health issues when that child gets to know that his or her parents didn’t really give birth to him or her. Thierry Byiringiro, a student in Gasabo What I know about surrogacy is that it is applied in developed countries. So, being legalised in Rwanda shows how we are also developing in all sectors. Families used to divorce due to infertility issues but now, this (surrogacy) will contribute to family growth. Hodali Ngabonziza, a youth based in Kigali Personally, it can’t work for me basing on our culture, and again that child is not yours in the actual sense. However, for those with complications, the application of surrogacy is an important thing. I think the participant (surrogate mother) will love that child more than the actual parents. The same will be the case for the child. I see this as a technological advancement that can provide opportunities for people, but I wouldn't do it.
