We Got Your Back: Empowering Youth to Combat Gender-Based Violence

WE GOT YOUR BACK is an organization that was founded in 2018 by a group of youth, most of whom are students. The organization aims to fight against violence, with a particular focus on men, as they play a significant role in violence. On June 15, 2019, We Got Your Back held a meeting to raise awareness about violence and the laws that can be used to seek help when encountering such issues. The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Goreth Mwenza, public health specialist Jean Pierre Nganabashaka, gender researcher Fideline Sangwa, stress expert and midwife Ruth Tuyisenge, and Silas Ngayaboshya, a guest representing RWAMREC (Program Manager at RWAMREC). The meeting was attended by students and various other individuals from different backgrounds.

In a detailed interview with Anastase Ndagijimana, the leader of We Got Your Back, we asked him where the idea for the organization came from. He explained that the idea was conceived through groups formed by students, and now they have 27 members. He shared that they have initiated several activities, including creating groups in various institutions focused on combating and preventing gender-based violence, with the goal of planting good values in the younger generation.

When asked why they decided to start the organization and the benefits it has for the youth and the community in general, he responded that it is highly beneficial because they have seen positive changes. People have shared that they have noticed a difference compared to before.

Jean Pierre Nganabashaka, the public health specialist, mentioned that people often come to them seeking advice on dealing with violence, and they assist them either financially or help them navigate the legal system. However, there is still the issue of a low number of men participating, as the campaigns often fail to reach them on time, and some don’t participate due to their mindset. Increasing the intensity of campaigns is one of the measures they are taking, with a special focus on the youth, as they are the country’s strength. When the information reaches them in time, they tend to participate. Their ultimate goal is to build a society free from gender-based violence.

Anastase Ndagijimana concluded by calling on everyone to join the fight against gender-based violence, which is a major concern for African societies and the world at large.

Photos:

• Ruth Tuyisenge, a midwife and expert in combating stress.
• Fideline Sangwa, a researcher on gender equality.
• Silas Ngayaboshya.
• Various individuals who attended the discussion.

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