Rwanda’s youth are increasingly embracing a practice known as “Pass”, a trend that authorities say has evolved from casual matchmaking into a dangerous and illegal business linked to sexual exploitation and human trafficking.
The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has issued a public warning, cautioning that the practice could expose both facilitators and participants to serious criminal liability.
Traditionally, Rwandan society relied on an umuranga, a trusted intermediary who helped introduce a young man to a prospective bride, initiating a formal and respectful courtship process.
Today’s “Pass” culture refers to the act of introducing someone to a romantic or sexual partner, often in exchange for money. Investigations indicate the practice has increasingly become commercialised, with some individuals openly charging fees and advertising their services on social media platforms such as WhatsApp.
RIB: This practice is illegal
In a statement shared on X, the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) said the growing trend among young people raises serious legal concerns.
The bureau warned that the behaviour could lead to the offence of profiting from another person’s sexual activity.
The warning follows the arrest of Dr Benjamin Manirakiza, a 41-year-old university lecturer, accused of using intermediaries to recruit underage schoolgirls for sexual exploitation.
RIB says Umuhoza Hamida, Ineza Fidella, and Mucyo Vanessa are under investigation for conspiracy and for facilitating sexual exploitation for financial gain.
Preliminary investigations indicate the suspects allegedly connected the lecturer to secondary school girls from various schools, including institutions in Kigali, in exchange for payments ranging between Rwf 5,000 and Rwf 20,000, described as commission.
Public reaction
The revelations have sparked public concern, with social media users describing the practice as a form of human trafficking.
Some have called for stronger legal awareness campaigns among young people, while others urged authorities to caution both those offering and those seeking “Pass” services.
What the law says
Under Law No. 51/2018 of 13 August 2018, which governs the prevention and punishment of human trafficking and gender-based violence, anyone convicted of profiting from another person’s sexual activity faces between two and three years in prison and a fine ranging from Rwf 3 million to Rwf 5 million.
The law criminalises facilitating, advertising, hosting, or financially benefiting from sexual exploitation, including arranging sexual encounters for payment.
Authorities urge vigilance
RIB has urged the public, particularly young people, to refrain from engaging in the “Pass” culture, warning that what may appear to be a harmless social practice could result in serious legal consequences.
