Partners joint planning & sharing reports: vital to fortify child protection system in Rwanda.

By JC Ndikubwimana

Kigali,16 February 2017 - Rwanda’s institutions engaged in child rights and protection must carry out joint planning and share reports to build a strong and sustainable child protection system, said by participants at the launch of a 5-year Accountable Governance for Child Rights Programme. “Save the Children is among the Government of Rwanda’s key partners in preventing and responding to violence, abuse, exploitation and neglect, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable”, says Philippe Adapoe, Country Director, SCI Rwanda.

Rwanda has gained tremendous success in the area of child rights and protection, which is largely the result of strong laws and policies, many of which have been developed with support from Save the Children to help create an environment that is highly favourable to the protection of children and the advancement of their rights. Among the key steps taken on behalf of Rwandan children in recent years are the establishment of Integrated Child Rights Policy, which is dedicated to the promotion and protection of children’s rights planning and programming.

 Speaking at the launch, Dr. Uwera Claudine Kanyamanza, Executive Secretary of National Commission for Children, explained that the wellbeing of children will be ensured if relevant stakeholders work together. “Our government’s desire is strengthening child protection systems for the betterment of all children. We cannot achieve this alone; partnership is highly valued”, she noted.  

 She highlighted that the government of Rwanda is set to do what it takes to ensure Every Last Child benefits from all aspects of development, “we recognise Save the Children International Rwanda for initiating wonderful programmes like thisAccountable Governance for Child Rights Programme, we pledge our full collaboration whenever and wherever needed”, she said. “We like this new programme; it will help us in the implementation of SDGs, and pave clear path for our vision 2050 towards achieving EDPRS3 in child rights and protection”.  

Whereas Michael Boström, Head of Swedish Development Cooperation, the funder of Accountable Governance for Child Rights Programme expressed gratitude towards the government of Rwanda’s commitment to advance child rights and protection. “This event today is a part of the journey to ensure all children are provided with equal opportunities to realise their full potential. We recognise the leadership and commitment of Rwanda. On behalf of the Swedish Cooperation, we are dedicated to support the efforts made”.

 The new programme is implemented in partnership of the Government of Rwanda and Civil Society Organisations engaged in Child Rights and Protection.

The event concluded successfully with inspiring commitment by all partners from around the country – a mix of both government and NGOs.

The future ahead looks bright…