In 2024, Haguruka formalize a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Rwanda Forensic Institute (RFI) focused on bolstering forensic science capacity among healthcare professionals involved in GBV cases. Haguruka led extensive training programs for 96 medical doctors and 96 nurses, emphasizing best practices in evidence collection, documentation, preservation, and chain of custody. The training incorporated trauma-informed care principles to create a supportive environment for victims, encouraging them to share information and facilitate more effective evidence gathering. Crucially, the partnership aimed to decentralize access to essential services like DNA testing for victims, especially teen mothers. Public awareness campaigns were launched to reinforce the importance of preserving forensic evidence in cases of GBV.

The training empowered medical professionals to handle GBV cases more effectively and with greater sensitivity. Improved documentation, adherence to the chain of custody, and the implementation of trauma-informed care protocols resulted in a significant increase in the quality and reliability of forensic evidence. This directly contributed to a stronger legal foundation for GBV cases, resulting in more successful prosecutions and a greater deterrent effect on perpetrators.

“We have been managing evidence storage, but we faced challenges in proper documentation and preservation. This training has equipped us with essential skills that will enable us to ensure accurate and complete information is provided to the police. We are now better prepared to support GBV case management effectively.” – Nizeyimana Jean Damscène, Gisenyi Hospital, Rubavu District.

The partnership fostered a more collaborative approach among various institutions (such as the RIB, MINISANTE  and MIGEPROF) involved in GBV response. Improved referral mechanisms and enhanced awareness of victims’ rights, promoted through targeted outreach, further solidified the systemic shift towards better support for survivors. This initiative underscores the collective responsibility in achieving justice, empowering the community and victims to actively participate in the process.

Accurate information is essential because many young people may start being sexually active earlier than expected. This emphasizes the importance of having open conversations about sex, relationships, and reproductive health with both girls and boys. Educating young people on these topics can help prevent unwanted pregnancies and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). NIYONSHUTI PACIFIQUE

In my Muslim community, sexual reproductive health isn’t openly taught, as it’s viewed as a sacred subject. One common misconception I learned was that acne and breast size are linked to sexual activity, which isn’t true at all! Thinking back, I wasn’t comfortable talking to my mom about periods. I asked classmates or even our helper instead. I believe parents should be friends with their kids so they can talk openly about these things. This prevents them from seeking information elsewhere, which could lead to misinformation and teenage pregnancy.ISINGIZWE MUVANDIMWE ALIDA

Many young people have misconceptions about reproductive health. They might think a woman can get pregnant at any time or that not having their period means there is no pregnancy risk. There is a need for awareness about the potential for contracting  transmitted diseases during unprotected sex.  PATRICK IGABE

After the training, I realized that reproductive health isn’t just a “girls’ thing”. It’s equally important for boys to understand their sexual and reproductive health and rights. It’s not just about preventing pregnancy for girls; it’s about making informed choices and protecting our lives. HIRWA JEAN LUC

 

I used to have misconceptions about reproductive health, thinking that women couldn’t get pregnant during their periods and that pregnancy wasn’t possible before a woman’s first period. However, our training sessions helped clear up these misunderstandings. Young people often turn to unreliable sources for information, which can lead to misinformation and poor decision-making. With proper education and guidance, we can learn to manage our impulses and make better choices in the future. UWANYIRIMPUHWE FAUSTINE

I previously held misconceptions about reproductive health, believing women couldn’t get pregnant during their periods and that pregnancy wasn’t possible before a woman’s first period. However, our training sessions dispelled these inaccurate ideas. Young people often seek information from unreliable sources, leading to misinformation and potentially poor decisions. With proper education and guidance, we can learn to manage impulses and make better decisions in the future. UMUHOZA VANESSA

 

Having grown up in homeless shelters since I was six, I didn’t have the chance to learn about reproductive health from my family. My parents’ separation and their conflicting advice only added to my confusion. However, learning about sexual and reproductive health in a group setting was comforting. Given my lack of consistent parental guidance, I believe that the government and other stakeholders should work to provide reproductive health education to children, especially those who do not receive this support at home. NIYIBIZI NASILI

When I first got my period, I felt too shy to talk to my mom, and she seemed uncomfortable as well. She just told me to ask my sister about pads. I strongly believe that parents should be more open and communicative with their children about reproductive health. It’s essential for young people like me to learn about these topics, as many of us don’t realize that pregnancy can occur before a girl’s first period. Young people can also play a role in educating peers about reproductive health. If a parent isn’t available or feels uncomfortable, a sibling can be a great source of support.   JOLIE MUREKATETE

Haguruka conducted a comprehensive assessment to identify remaining gaps in the implementation of shelters, and the findings were as follows: a lack of shared understanding of shelters, deficiencies in the policy framework, an absence of standardized procedures, service limitations due to space constraints, staffing challenges, budgetary limitations, infrastructure deficiencies, and a lack of burnout prevention for staff. These findings underscored the urgent need for intervention and informed Haguruka’s multi-pronged response.

This assessment demonstrates how establishing clear standards, providing targeted training, and investing in infrastructure can significantly enhance the safety, quality, and accessibility of GBV shelters while strengthening the overall support system and empowering victims to seek the help they deserve and work towards their recovery.

Haguruka’s response included a detailed analysis of existing shelters and their legal frameworks. Learning visits to UWONET shelters in Uganda provided insights into best practices in management, partnerships, and survivor support. Based on these findings, Haguruka developed standardised operating procedures (SOPs) covering all aspects of shelter operations, from admission to case management. Additionally, significant renovations were undertaken at the Musanze shelter, creating a safe, hygienic, and supportive environment.

Implementing SOPs resulted in improved service delivery, increased transparency, and streamlined referral pathways. The renovated Musanze shelter now provides a safe and supportive environment, reducing the psychological impact of trauma. These efforts have also streamlined access to legal support and resources.

WHAT HAS HELPED YOU SUSTAIN YOUR WORK FOR SO LONG?

My passion for helping others drives me. I genuinely love assisting people without expecting anything in return. I focus on vulnerable individuals, and during the early years, we didn’t have computers, so we relied on direct communication and support.

BESIDES YOUR PASSION, WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BECOME A PARALEGAL?

I once had a case against very powerful individuals in this country, and after 15 years, I won. I came to Haguruka for consultation and learned a lot about my work with the help of a lawyer. I became skilled at filling out court forms and understanding legal procedures. The knowledge I gained from Haguruka was instrumental in winning that case, which began in 1998.

WAS THERE SOMEONE YOU HELPED WHO TOUCHED YOUR HEART? WHAT HAPPENED?

Many people have touched my heart since 2001. I helped four individuals, including a woman I didn’t know personally. I was motivated to assist her because Haguruka supports women. They won their cases and returned home, unaware that I had appealed on their behalf after they were initially convicted. They thought they would be attending court for their own cases, not knowing what was happening behind the scenes. I paid for their legal representation, and they were acquitted. Those individuals became my friends, and we remain close to this day. Another rewarding experience was advising a man to accept his child, who has since been recognized and returned to school.

WHAT CAN YOU SAY ABOUT HAGURUKA’S ROLE IN PROTECTING WOMEN AND CHILDREN?

Haguruka plays a vital role in supporting the people we assist, and we receive positive feedback from them. When I see individuals benefiting from our services, especially regarding DNA testing, it reassures me. Many people have doubts about their children’s paternity, and Haguruka has been the organization that society desperately needed.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE THE COMMON CAUSES OF MARRIAGE PROBLEMS, AND WHAT ARE THE SOLUTIONS?

Poverty is a significant issue. Financial struggles and disputes over property can lead to problems in marriages. When couples marry without resources and later acquire wealth, it can create tensions, leading one partner to seek relationships outside the marriage.

WHAT BRINGS YOU SATISFACTION IN YOUR WORK?

What satisfies me most is knowing the impact of my work and believing that I will be rewarded by God. I see blessings in my life, and when I help others, I often encounter people who may not remember me but express their gratitude with heartfelt hugs. It brings me immense joy to do good for others. While I also seek support, my happiness comes from being kind and generous. I have made many friends through Haguruka, and I intend to continue this work for the rest of my life.

Paralegals like Christine serve as a vital bridge, connecting citizens with Haguruka’s services. They play a crucial role in raising community awareness about these services, guiding citizens on legal matters, and conducting case follow-ups. Recognizing the importance of paralegals in advancing justice and addressing gender-based violence (GBV) issues, Haguruka has organized capacity-building programs to enhance their ability to serve the rights-holders effectively.

We address the pressing issues of gender-based violence and barriers to justice, showcasing Haguruka’s innovative solutions, from enhanced forensic science to mobile legal aid clinics. These initiatives empower GBV victims and ensure their voices are heard, dismantling systemic obstacles and promoting access to justice.

The magazine also features powerful testimonies and insights from youth advocates, emphasizing the importance of education and open communication in addressing misconceptions surrounding sexual and reproductive health. Haguruka’s commitment includes providing legal aid, advocating for law reform, and empowering women.

We hope this issue inspires you to join us in promoting women’s rights and creating a brighter future for all, fostering a culture of respect, understanding, and empowerment in our communities.

Download the Magazine here

The alarming rise in domestic violence, with reported spousal violence increasing from 40% in 2015 to 46% in 2020, underscores the urgent need for intervention. Recognizing this, a high-level dialogue was organized kicking off the 16 Days Of Activism campaign 2024  in partnership with the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, UN Women, Haguruka, and RWAMREC, convened to address the issue of building GBV-free families.

The dialogue brought together key stakeholders, including government representatives, gender equality experts, GBV survivors, and community leaders, and explored the multifaceted causes of family instability. Key objectives included promoting family-centred approaches, strengthening community-based interventions and structures to prevent all forms of violence that hinder human potential development, raising awareness of the impact of positive parenting on children’s development to ensure sustainable families free from GBV, highlighting emerging GBV issues, including tech-facilitated GBV, and discussing existing preventive measures and response mechanisms.

In her keynote remarks, Consolee Uwimana, the Minister of Gender and Family Promotion highlighted the importance of dialogue in analyzing root issues within families: “We need to assess issues in families deeply, and this dialogue is crucial.”

Presenting the enablers and predators of family stability and resilience, researcher Reverien Interayamahanga emphasized the root causes of family conflict, such as ineffective communication, poverty, aggressive behaviours, infidelity, and harmful peer influence. He noted the devastating consequences these conflicts have for children, leading to increased school dropout rates, drug abuse, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges.

Panelists stressed the need for a comprehensive, multifaceted approach. Umurerwa Ninette, Executive Secretary of Haguruka, urged coordinated efforts at all levels and prioritized GBV court cases: “We need to ensure that cases of victims delayed in courts are given priority. We advocate for a specialized court for GBV cases.” Murangira B. Thierry, Rwanda Investigation Bureau spokesperson, underscored the role of social media in perpetuating violence, urging responsible online behaviour and challenging harmful language: “We must be cautious with our words; phrases like ‘men are trash’ only serve to deepen divisions. We should use social media to promote understanding and equality.” Sr. Immaculée Uwamariya highlighted the importance of societal support for young couples preparing for marriage, emphasizing the necessity of genuine parenting and open dialogue: “Everyone has a role in parenting, extending to those in marriage. We need to create spaces for open dialogue.”

Haguruka plays a crucial role in promoting gender equality and building GBV-free families through various innovative approaches and projects, including the “Ingo z’Amahoro project, “which proactively prevents and responds to GBV while promoting sexual and reproductive health awareness.

The high-level dialogue underscored the critical need for a multifaceted approach addressing both the root causes of violence and the immediate needs of survivors. By promoting gender equality, providing support services, and fostering community engagement, Rwandan families can create safe and nurturing environments where all members can thrive.

Habiyaremye felt pressured into the marriage. He claimed Adeline moved in uninvited and stayed forcibly, and his family disapproved. Friends mocked him for marrying an “older woman,” fueling his reliance on alcohol. The fighting escalated, and even family mediation failed.

Habiyaremye, depressed, stopped working and turned to drink more. Every possession became a source of conflict, even though they had little. Their children’s education suffered due to lack of funds.

Adeline felt trapped and silent until discovering the Ingo Z’amahoro project in Haguruka. This program encouraged open communication. On the first day, they felt a sense of shared vulnerability and attended every session.

They learned: cooperation between spouses in household chores, healthy conflict resolution, and ending domestic violence.

After the training, Habiyaremye spent less time at bars, communication improved, and arguments subsided. Now, they share his earnings, prioritizing family needs. “Before, conflict meant empty plates,” Habiyaremye admitted. “Now, we eat together, using our money wisely.”

Adeline also found her voice through Haguruka’s women’s space. Her newfound confidence led her to lead a cooperative of 25 people. “I used to be timid,” she said, “but now I speak clearly.”

Today, they are a happy family with thriving children. They credit Haguruka for saving their marriage from the brink of collapse. Now a role model in their village, they encourage other couples to talk openly and resolve conflict.

As the situation worsened, Patricia felt the need to take drastic measures to protect herself, including engaging in physical confrontations and hiding knives and machetes out of fear for her safety. “I had to hide the knives so he wouldn’t kill me,” she recalled. “I remember many sleepless nights and instances where I couldn’t stay at home. Our house felt like a wild animal’s den. He always accused me of mismanagement and I accused him of cheating me.”

Donat continued to blame Patricia for everything, viewing her as the cause of their problems rather than a partner. He accused her of financial mismanagement, saying, “I didn’t see her as a partner or a person we can live together, but as a source of problems.”

However, with empowerment of Haguruka, through the Ingo z’amahoro project, Donat and Patricia received training in essential skills such as human rights, gender equality, and property rights. Donat compared Haguruka to a doctor, healing their broken relationship and guiding them towards recovery. They learned the importance of being good partners, treating each other with respect and understanding, and realized that “no matter how difficult the situation, there’s always a way forward.”

“Haguruka has been a parent  to me, and I am forever grateful for the  support they’ve shown me. I have nothing but gratitude to offer in return, and that is to thank you.” Donat added

Today, Donat and Patricia are responsible citizens who attend community meetings together and have incorporated prayer into their daily routine. They are rebuilding their lives, starting with two pigs they purchased from Haguruka’s transport facilitations, and ensuring their children enjoy a happy and healthy life. They continue to support each other through the challenges they still face, and actively participate in community meetings, offering advice and personal testimony to help other couples resolve conflicts.

After 13 years together, daily arguments consumed their relationship, leading to communication breakdowns, physical confrontations, gender-based violence, and neglect of their children’s needs.

“Our earnings were spent on alcohol instead of providing for our children, causing constant conflict,” Dieudonné confessed. Despite attempts by local authorities and leaders to intervene, their confrontations persisted, with fears of killing each other. “We almost separated,” Dieudonné recalled. “The connection was lost, and we fought constantly, fearing we might kill each other.”

Agnès recounted instances of physical abuse and harassment, “There were times he would beat me in my sleep for no reason or verbally harass me.” Their children suffered immensely due to the lack of stability, proper food, education, and a peaceful environment.

During these violent episodes, Agnes would often sustain injuries inflicted by her partner. In one severe instance, once she reported him to the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB). Despite the gravity of her injuries and potential consequences, Agnes chose to forgive him before he could be arrested.

For over six years, a conflict persisted between Dieudonné and Agnès despite attempts at local and family mediation. However, following their participation in Haguruka’s “Ingo z’Amahoro” training program, which focuses on fostering peace and understanding within families, the couple managed to resolve their issues. Dieudonné expressed that prior to the program, he believed living together with Agnès was impossible and considered their family situation a nightmare. “Our family was a nightmare; I thought it was impossible to live with my partner. I couldn’t imagine finding peace with her,” he reflected.

Through the training, Dieudonné discovered the importance of gender equality and sharing responsibility for household chores. In contrast, Agnès gained insights into addressing family issues and different types of gender-based violence. Together, they recognized their lack of communication and empathy as primary factors in escalating their family conflicts.

Inspired by their experience in “Ingo z’Amahoro,” the couple decided to legally marry in December 2023, just months after completing the program.

Dieudonné and Agnès’s story serves as a message for families in conflict. They champion the importance of engaging in community-based conflict resolution efforts. Today, they actively encourage others to embrace peace and dedicate themselves to fostering a harmonious life together.