Women in Rusizi district practicing informal cross border trade between Rwanda and DRC say they are being sexually abused by men in DRC with whom they transact business.
The women who usually sell fish, milk, eggs, fruits and vegetables to various clients in DRC say after transacting business on the other side of the border, Congolese men force them to have sex before payments for merchandise can be effected.
“Congolese men rape us after transacting business ,” said Mukamisha Beata, one of the cross border business women.
“A person calls you to take him merchandise;negotiate on prices after which they bring in sexual innuendos. When you decline sex with them, they do not pay for the goods taken,,” added Mukangarambe Dorothy.
During a discussion with the coordinator of the association of women striving for rural development (Reseau des femmes) , Mukantege Veronica, with cross border business women held yesterday, she promised them interventions that will bring together individuals from both sides of border to seek a permanent solution for the issue.
“That is a matter that should as well be addressed by leaders from the DRC. Next time we will meet all stakeholders to discuss the issue,” she said.
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