Defilement cases are on the rise in Rwanda, the country’s Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion MIGEPROF said.
Batamuriza Mireille, the Permanent Secretary in MIGEPROF, has expressed concern over the increasing number of children being sexually abused, blaming the problem largely on parents who neglect their responsibilities to raise and protect their children.
She made the remarks during a discussion focused on the role of families in preventing child abuse.
She highlighted growing cases of parental neglect and family breakdowns that leave children vulnerable.
Batamuriza noted that some parents are abandoning their homes and responsibilities, leaving children without proper care, guidance, or protection.
“Today, we are shocked to see situations where a man abandons his family, and the woman also says, ‘I did not bring these children from my home either,’ before leaving the household as well. This leaves children exposed and vulnerable to abuse,” said Batamuriza Mireille.
She emphasized that raising children should remain the responsibility of both parents, urging families to work together in ensuring children grow up in safe and supportive environments.
According to MIGEPROF, collaboration between families, schools, local leaders, and community institutions is essential in tackling the growing problem of child defilement and gender-based violence across the country.
Batamuriza called on parents to take a more active role in their children’s lives by communicating with them regularly, monitoring their daily activities, and providing proper guidance to help protect them from predators and abuse.
She further stressed that building stable families with strong values and responsible parenting remains one of the most effective ways to fight violence against children and secure a better future for them.
By Andrew Shyaka
