Gender equality: Activists on Rwanda’s progress, lingering challenges

In the pursuit of gender equality, Rwanda has emerged as a symbol of progress and resilience. The nation has witnessed significant strides in empowering women and fostering gender parity but, according to activists, challenges persist. The good news is, they say, there is political will to make things even better. ALSO READ: At UN, Rwanda champions acceleration of Gender Equality According to Olive Uwamariya, a feminist, one of the most significant achievements in promoting gender equality in Rwanda is the establishment of gender parity as a prerequisite. She explained that the principle was effectively incorporated into public and government programs as well as the private sector, ensuring that the role and participation of women are acknowledged and valued. ALSO READ: Rwandans share views on equality ahead of Women Deliver Conference Uwamariya highlighted the progress made in the field of education, where efforts were made to ensure that girls have equal access to educational opportunities, adding that there have been initiatives in other vital sectors aimed at providing equitable access to opportunities and services for all. Uwamariya pointed out that some individuals have approached gender equality solely from a numerical standpoint, focusing on its potential economic benefits, rather than considering it from a broader human rights perspective. “One of the biggest challenges that remains is that we still have domination of men having privileges and more opportunities than women, looking at both family and society level,” she said. “Although there have been attempts to change cultural norms and how people understand the role of women and gender equality, it has not tackled cultural and systemic causes of inequalities between gender. I think the biggest challenge is the power dynamics. We are not working to transform and challenge the power dynamics that men hold both in public and private sectors.” Uwamariya emphasized the importance of collecting accurate and comprehensive data to understand the diverse experiences of women, including those with non-traditional gender identities and other identities that may not be immediately visible. She expressed the need for inclusive approaches that encompass a broader range of gender identities, sexual orientations, and other sensitive topics that are often difficult to discuss openly, highlighting the role of education and fact-checking in ensuring that policymakers and lawmakers involve the community in decision-making processes, particularly by engaging young people and understanding their genuine aspirations. ALSO READ: VOX-POP: International students on being a woman in Rwanda Fidele Rutayisire, the Executive Director of Rwanda Men's Resource Center (RWAMREC), acknowledges the remarkable advancements Rwanda has made in combating gender-based discrimination and fostering equality. One notable achievement in achieving gender parity is the improved accessibility to primary and secondary education, Rutayisire emphasizes. He recalled the positive development of men's involvement in advocating for gender equality, preventing violence against women, and promoting positive expressions of masculinity. Rutayisire believes that men have a crucial role to play in advancing gender equality in Rwanda through active engagement by promoting education and awareness, challenging societal gender norms, supporting women's leadership, taking on domestic responsibilities, and addressing issues of gender-based violence. “Men can also use their influence and privilege to advocate for policies and laws that promote gender equality like equal parental leave,” he said.