RDF conducts training on preventing gender-based violence among female soldiers’ spouses

The Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) has launched a training program on preventing gender-based violence (GBV) in Nyamasheke District, bringing together 100 women who are spouses of military personnel.

The training, which began on Wednesday, May 7, aims to promote the welfare of military families and enhance knowledge on preventing gender-based violence within communities.

According to the RDF, this initiative is part of a broader program targeting women married to soldiers in the districts of Nyamasheke, Rutsiro, Ngororero, Nyaruguru, Gisagara, and Nyamagabe.

Col. Nyirasafari Seraphine, Head of Civil-Military Relations in RDF’s J9 Department, said the training is designed to prevent GBV and address issues affecting the well-being of military families.

She emphasized that the initiative reflects RDF’s commitment to supporting soldiers’ families and promoting gender equality and mutual respect.

The Mayor of Nyamasheke District, Narcisse Mupenzi, encouraged participants to take an active role in advancing their families’ welfare and to serve as role models for positive living in their communities.

The discussions provided a safe space for the participants to openly raise questions, share views, and express concerns about challenges they face.

Participants engaged in in-depth discussions with a team of RDF experts drawn from various departments, who provided detailed information on the force’s ongoing efforts to support family welfare and gender equality.

The seven-day training is organized in collaboration with several RDF departments, including J9 and J1, the Military Medical Insurance unit, Zigama CSS (a military financial cooperative), the Military Auditor General’s office, the Ministry of Defence’s Pension Fund, and the Armed Forces Shop.

RDF noted that similar training sessions were conducted in 2018 and 2019 across 15 districts, yielding positive outcomes in combating gender-based violence and improving the welfare of military families.