INKOMEZI Campaign in Rwanda: Promoting Gender Equality and Combating Gender-Based Violence in Schools

In Rwanda, a campaign called ‘INKOMEZI’ is being held in schools, aimed at encouraging primary and secondary school students to participate in promoting gender equality and combating gender-based violence, particularly within educational institutions. This campaign, organized by the Youth Organization ‘We Got Your Back’ in collaboration with Generation Gender and the Kamonyi District authorities, was launched at Santa Maria School and featured various discussions and debates among students.

The debates focused on two main themes: “In Rwanda, there are jobs reserved for men and not women,” and “In Rwanda, boys and girls do not have equal opportunities in education.” The purpose of these debates was to help students better understand the principle of gender equality, promote the fight against gender-based violence, and critically analyze Rwanda’s progress in ensuring education for all, regardless of gender, and the equal opportunity for both men and women to pursue any profession.

Jean Yumvuhore, the head of Santa Maria School, praised the ‘INKOMEZI’ campaign and emphasized its importance in helping schools promote gender equality and complement cultural values related to gender equity among young people. He said that the campaign would help the school achieve its goal of integrating gender equality into all student activities and promote Rwandan values related to gender equity among the youth.

Anastase Ndagijimana, the leader of ‘We Got Your Back,’ highlighted the goals of the campaign and encouraged students to use the lessons they learned to assist their peers and set a good example in fighting gender-based violence. He reminded the students that their future is in their hands and that they should make wise decisions, especially when faced with temptations. He also emphasized that students must play an active role in combating gender-based violence in their families.

Umuhoza Alexia, a leader at the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, informed the participants that in the past three months, Kamonyi District had received 255 reports of gender-based violence, 63 of which were related to violence against youth. She encouraged the youth to take the lead in fighting gender-based violence and promoting gender equality in both schools and communities, to create an environment free of violence.

Around 789 students participated in the event, including 360 girls, 429 boys, and 5 teachers. This campaign is part of a broader initiative to promote gender equality and combat gender-based violence in primary and secondary schools across various institutions.