Women in Burera District, Nemba Sector, Kivumu Cell, Songorero Village, say they are concerned about fines of up to 10,000 Rwandan francs imposed on mothers who give birth outside health facilities.
One resident told Radio/TV1, “When a mother gives birth on the way, they are fined, even if the delay was caused by the long journey to reach the health center.”
Residents say the Songorero Health Center, which they are supposed to use, is often non-functional, forcing them to travel long distances to access medical services elsewhere.
Another resident called the fines unfair, citing poor road conditions that make it difficult for mothers to reach health facilities on time.
“They say a fine is justified, but how can a mother reach the hospital when there is no ambulance, no permanent doctor to follow up, or no one to call for transportation? This is a serious problem,” the resident explained.
Burera District Mayor, Soline Mukamana, stressed that residents should not view fines as punishment but as guidance to encourage mothers to give birth in health facilities.
“These fines are not meant as a punishment. They are a reminder for mothers to deliver at health centers,” Mukamana said.
Residents, however, say the lack of accessible health facilities leads some women to seek care and give birth in neighboring areas outside Burera.
