Rwanda has signed the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (AU-CEVAWG), becoming the ninth member state to endorse the continental treaty aimed at strengthening efforts to prevent and eliminate gender-based violence.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Olivier Nduhungirehe signed the convention on behalf of Rwanda on Tuesday during the 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The convention provides a continental legal framework to support member states in adopting and strengthening laws, policies and institutions to prevent all forms of violence against women and girls, while enhancing protection for survivors and promoting accountability.
In a statement, Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said the country fully supports the convention, noting that its principles are consistent with Rwanda’s commitment to gender equality and its national policies promoting women’s rights and empowerment.
Nduhungirehe is representing Rwanda at the two-day Executive Council meeting, which opened on July 28 and brings together foreign ministers from African Union member states.
The meeting is discussing key continental priorities and preparing recommendations for consideration by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government, including issues related to the implementation of the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and expanding access to clean water and sanitation services across the continent.
