Kigali: The Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Connie Britton has praised Rwanda National Police (RNP) for its efficiency and professionalism in responding to incidences of gender-based violence (GBV).
Ambassador Britton noted that countrywide campaigns that have been influential in raising awareness against the scourge.
He made the remarks during her visit at RNP, where together with a delegation of officials from UNDP, toured the Directorate of Anti-Gender Based Violence and Child Protection which is under the Criminal Investigation Department.
During their tour, the group was received by Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Morris Murigo, the Deputy Commissioner for CID, who made presentations on the work and progress of RNP’s initiatives to overcome GBV, including the daily activities of the directorate, as well as the work of Isange One Stop Centre, which offers free medical-legal services to victims of GBV and child abuse.
In her remarks, Ambassador Britton noted that her work as a UNDP Ambassador focuses on women empowerment and the fight against poverty, and commended RNP for being an exemplary leader in imposing strategies that help to advance the rights of women.
“There is no place for violence against women this day and era – and Rwanda as a country is a shining example of a country that has refused to tolerate crimes committed against women,” she said.
“On top of government efforts to economically and politically empower women, RNP has put in place strategies that are well appreciated internationally for protecting victims of GBV and ensuring that justice is served.”
“Developing countries that are struggling with high rates of GBV should borrow a leaf and copy the working strategies of Rwanda. I have seen many places where people are living in extreme poverty and the rights of women being trampled on – and am grateful that we have a very good example in Rwanda on how we can uplift women.”
In his presentations, CSP Murigo noted that RNP works closely with the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion to raise awareness about women and children’s rights, and has also scaled up Isange One Stop Centers throughout the country to tend to the immediate needs of GBV victims.
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