Refugees in Mahama Camp, Kirehe District, are being urged to take an active role in preventing gender-based violence (GBV) and drug abuse. The campaign, held on January 12, 2026, reached residents from 14 countries, totaling over 72,000 people.
Led by the Office of the Prosecutor General’s Anti-GBV & E-Drugs Unit in partnership with the Nyarubuye Primary Prosecutor’s Office and the Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), the initiative focused on educating residents about the legal, social, and health consequences of drug use and sexual abuse.
Participants learned about the penalties for child sexual abuse, risk factors, preventive measures, and how to preserve evidence when crimes occur. They were also briefed on the harmful effects of drugs on families and camp safety, and on support mechanisms for those affected.
Janvier Uwizeye, a participant, said the session opened his eyes to the dangers of drugs and sexual violence on the community. Eric Mwizerwa, MINEMA camp officer, urged residents to collaborate with authorities and report incidents promptly.
The campaign has already covered five refugee camps and will next move to Nyabiheke Camp in Gatsibo District, as part of a broader national push to strengthen safety and legal awareness in refugee communities.
