The Rwanda Defense Force (RDF) has launched a weeklong training program aimed at preventing gender-based violence and improving the welfare of military families in Nyamasheke District.
The training, which began Wednesday, brought together 100 wives of RDF soldiers from Nyamasheke and surrounding districts, including Rutsiro, Ngororero, Nyaruguru, Gisagara and Nyamagabe. The program focuses on raising awareness and equipping participants with knowledge and tools to combat gender-based violence in their communities.
Col. Seraphine Nyirasafari, head of civil-military cooperation in RDF’s J9 department, said the initiative is part of a broader efforts to address social issues affecting military families while promoting gender equality.
“This training demonstrates RDF’s commitment to supporting the well-being of soldiers’ families and advancing gender equity,” Nyirasafari said.
Nyamasheke District Mayor Narcisse Mupenzi urged the women to serve as role models and advocates for social change within their households and communities.
“These sessions are not just educational; they’re transformative,” Mupenzi said. “You are being empowered to uplift your families and inspire those around you.”
Participants were given the opportunity to engage in open discussions with a multi-disciplinary team of RDF experts, raising questions and concerns about challenges they face at home. RDF officials shared current strategies and programs being implemented to improve family welfare and gender relations.
The program is jointly organized by RDF departments J1 and J9 in collaboration with the Military Medical Insurance unit, Zigama CSS (a military cooperative bank), the Military Auditorate, the Ministry of Defence’s Pension Fund, and the Armed Forces Shop.
According to the RDF, similar training initiatives held in 2018 and 2019 across 15 districts led to measurable improvements in reducing gender-based violence and enhancing family well-being within the military community.
