Domestic violence still a concern in Nyamagabe

Domestic violence has been cited as a major stumbling block to women’s economic empowerment in Nyamagabe district. Speaking during celebrations to mark this year’s International Rural Women’s Day on Monday in Kitabi Sector, the Mayor of Nyamagabe District; Philibert Mugisha, said domestic violence is a challenge hampering development in the area. “We had cases of husbands who killed or wounded their wives because of family disputes. This is why we are making efforts to stamp out domestic violence.” Mugisha said in January this year, a husband got back home one evening, found the wife had not yet finished preparing food and immediately killed her. He said one of the measures taken to stamp out family conflicts in Nyamagabe was to create local tribunals, where domestic disputes could be settled through sharing experiences.Béata Busasa, the National Coordinator of the Women Network for Rural Development (Réseau des Femmes) said the women cannot develop amid violence.“Because we have noted that violence is a major stumbling block to women empowerment, we have stepped up efforts in fighting against it,” she said.In a related development, Réseau des Femmes donated 36 cows worth Rwf21.7 million to women in the district. The beneficiaries were from the sectors of Kitabi, Mbazi, Mugano and Musange.Réseau des Femmes will also finance the construction of cow barns for the beneficiaries.