Digital Divide Slows Women’s Council Work in Southern Province

The concern was raised this week during the provincial General Assembly of the CNF, held in Kibeho, Nyaruguru District.

Lawmakers attending the meeting expressed frustration that many women’s contributions are going unreported. MP Gérmaine Mukabalisa questioned why provincial performance contracts reflected so few women-led agricultural activities.

“How can we see a report showing only 50 farming activities by women, and only in Gisagara District? Should we conclude that in other districts there are no women who farm?” she asked.

MP Marie Claire Uwumuremyi echoed the concern, pointing to gaps in data collection. “It has been observed that some reports are poorly prepared. The challenge comes from a lack of technological tools, especially computers,” she said. She urged local representatives to use mobile phones to submit information until computers are provided.

CNF Representatives from CNF said that the absence of digital tools is their biggest barrier. Christiane Uwamahoro, secretary of the CNF Committee in Nyaruguru District, said they often receive sector-level reports late because members must borrow computers from colleagues or institutions.

“If CNF representatives at the sector and cell levels were given computers, they would be able to provide timely data. Waiting for delayed reports is difficult, and sometimes information is forgotten or lost,” Uwamahoro said.

MP Veneranda Uwumariya, who served as guest of honor at the assembly, pledged to advocate for solutions at higher levels of government.

The National Women’s Council is a platform for advocacy and awareness on women’s issues, with a mission to empower women and strengthen their role in Rwanda’s development.