Nearly half of inmates in Rwanda’s correctional facilities are young people aged between 18 and 30, according to the Rwanda National Police, which has raised concerns over youth involvement in crime and other harmful behaviours.
Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Operations, CP Vincent Sano, disclosed that 47 per cent of inmates fall within this age group during the General Assembly of Youth Volunteers held in Kigali on Friday, July 31, 2026.
The meeting focused on addressing challenges affecting young people, including crime, drug abuse, consumption of substandard alcoholic beverages and the promotion of positive values among the youth.
The gathering brought together more than 500 youth volunteers from Kigali, police officials and leaders from different institutions.
CP Sano said the statistics reflect the need for stronger efforts to guide young people towards responsible choices and prevent behaviours that could expose them to criminal activities.
“Statistics show that 47 per cent of people in correctional facilities are young people aged between 18 and 30,” he said.
He added that 78 per cent of inmates serving sentences for various offences are below the age of 40, urging young people to embrace discipline and avoid actions that could lead them into conflict with the law.
Sano also revealed that more than 3,000 young people have been taken through rehabilitation programmes due to excessive use of drugs, another issue he said continues to affect youth wellbeing.
He reminded young people that they are the current and future strength of the country, urging them to uphold Rwandan values and contribute positively to society.
“Young people should not waste the opportunities the country provides. They should work towards self-development, maintain good conduct and remember that they are the leaders and parents of tomorrow,” he said.
The police official said youth volunteers have a critical role in influencing their peers and supporting efforts to prevent crime, drug abuse and other destructive behaviours.
Kigali City Mayor Samuel Dusengiyumva also urged young people to play a greater role in fighting harmful practices, including excessive alcohol consumption, inappropriate dressing and other behaviours he described as affecting social values.
“We appreciate the work you are doing. Help us eliminate unsafe alcoholic beverages and promote decent dressing. A person should dress in a way that earns respect from others,” Dusengiyumva said.
He commended youth volunteers for their contribution to the city’s development, including supporting cleanliness campaigns, security initiatives, community work and efforts to combat unsafe alcoholic beverages.
During the 2025/2026 financial year, youth volunteers in Kigali carried out various community support activities and mobilised Rwf15 million from their own initiatives to assist vulnerable groups and support other social programmes.
The General Assembly brought together more than 500 youth volunteers, who were encouraged to continue contributing to efforts aimed at preventing crime, drug abuse and other challenges affecting young people.
