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First Lady Highlights Self-Love and Growth on Women's Day

Mugisha R. John — 2026-03-08T17:37:46Z

As Rwanda joined the global community to mark International Women's Day 2026, First Lady Jeannette Kagame called on women and girls to prioritize their mental and physical well-being while continuing to advocate for their rights and personal dignity.

In a powerful message to commemorate the day, Mrs. Kagame encouraged women to nurture self-respect and confidence, emphasizing the importance of mutual support in both personal and professional journeys.

“Happy Women's Day! I urge you to carve your character carefully, define your boundaries, advocate for yourselves and other women and girls, and protect your physical and mental health,” she said. “And please, love yourself with the same gentleness you give others—the same gentleness you wish and deserve to experience from the world.”

The First Lady's remarks reflect Rwanda's broader commitment to holistic empowerment, a model that pairs economic and political inclusion with emotional well-being. While Rwanda has achieved global recognition for gender equality, including women holding over 61% of seats in the lower house of Parliament and participating in a gender-balanced cabinet, Mrs. Kagame emphasized that sustainable development also depends on women's ability to thrive with dignity.

As the founder of the Imbuto Foundation, Mrs. Kagame has led initiatives in education, health, and family development for more than two decades, providing mentorship, scholarships, and leadership training for thousands of girls, and boosting female representation in sciences and professional leadership.

The First Lady's focus on mental health complements recent government efforts to decentralize services to local health centers and launch campaigns addressing stigma surrounding mental illness. Marie Médiatrice Umubyeyi, Executive Secretary of the National Women's Council, called on women to leverage these opportunities, saying, “The government has restored the dignity of women; it is therefore imperative that they value this by taking up leadership roles and striving for dignity within the family and society.”

International Women's Day in Rwanda is both a celebration of achievements and a reminder of ongoing challenges, including teenage pregnancy, domestic conflict, and economic barriers. Mrs. Kagame's message underscores a vital truth: women's empowerment requires self-care, resilience, and the freedom to thrive with dignity.

UN Women Rwanda launches $6.3 million plan to boost women's empowerment

Mugisha R. John — 2026-02-18T10:56:34Z

UN Women Rwanda has launched a new four-year strategic plan that will require about $6.3 million to expand programs aimed at empowering women, particularly those in rural areas, and closing gender gaps across key sectors.

The 2026–2029 strategy was officially launched on Feb. 5. UN Women said $3.5 million, or 55% of the projected budget, has already been secured, with efforts underway to mobilize the remaining funds through partnerships with financial institutions and the government.

UN Women Rwanda Representative Jennet Kem said the agency is working closely with banks and public institutions to address the funding gap. She cited existing agreements with the National Bank of Rwanda, Equity Bank and I&M Bank, as well as collaboration with government bodies.

UN Women Rwanda Representative Jennet Kem

“The government's presence here shows strong support,” Kem said. “It allows us to explore how we can work together within existing capacities to continue advancing women's development.”

Minister of Gender and Family Promotion Consolée Uwimana said the government will continue to partner with UN Women Rwanda, noting that limited global funding requires stronger domestic collaboration.

Minister of Gender and Family Promotion Consolée Uwimana

“These programs are for Rwandans,” Uwimana said. “We must work together and contribute what we can, while partners provide additional support.”

UN Women implements a wide range of programs in Rwanda, including leadership training, economic empowerment initiatives and efforts to combat gender-based violence.

Under its 2020–2025 strategy, UN Women Rwanda trained more than 85,000 people on gender-based violence. More than 35,000 survivors including 26,570 women and 8,876 men received direct support. The agency also helped 9,000 women access loans, trained more than 24,000 people in economic empowerment and supported 3,000 women to start small and medium-sized businesses.

UN Resident Coordinator Ozonnia Ojielo said Rwanda has made strong progress in advancing women's rights, but stressed the need for inclusive economic growth as the country pursues its goal of becoming a lower-middle-income economy by 2035 and a high-income country by 2050.

UN Women began operating in Rwanda in 1996 as UNIFEM and was rebranded in 2010.

UN Women Rwanda launches $6.3 million plan to boost women's empowerment

Mugisha R. John — 2026-02-05T09:18:04Z

UN Women Rwanda Representative Jennet Kem

“The government's presence here shows strong support,” Kem said. “It allows us to explore how we can work together within existing capacities to continue advancing women's development.”

Minister of Gender and Family Promotion Consolée Uwimana

“These programs are for Rwandans,” Uwimana said. “We must work together and contribute what we can, while partners provide additional support.”

UN Women implements a wide range of programs in Rwanda, including leadership training, economic empowerment initiatives and efforts to combat gender-based violence.

Under its 2020–2025 strategy, UN Women Rwanda trained more than 85,000 people on gender-based violence. More than 35,000 survivors — including 26,570 women and 8,876 men — received direct support. The agency also helped 9,000 women access loans, trained more than 24,000 people in economic empowerment and supported 3,000 women to start small and medium-sized businesses.

UN Women began operating in Rwanda in 1996 as UNIFEM and was rebranded in 2010.

African Women Leaders Urge Unity to Bridge Gender Gap in Leadership

Mugisha John — 2025-10-29T08:51:05Z

African women leaders are calling for greater solidarity and collaboration to help more women attain leadership positions across the continent, saying mutual support is the surest way to close persistent gender gaps in decision-making.

The appeal was made during a continental forum held on Oct. 27, 2025, in Kigali, which brought together women leaders from politics, academia, civil society and the private sector to discuss strategies for advancing women's participation in governance.

Prof. Oluwafunmilayo Josephone, chair of the African Women Leaders Network, said women remain underrepresented in leadership roles across Africa and called for urgent measures to ensure equal participation.

“In my country, Nigeria, women are still very few in leadership positions,” she said. “This forum brings together women from different sectors to explore how we can make women's presence and influence stronger in decision-making spaces.”

Memory Kachambwa, executive director of the Feminist Movement for Economic Transformation (FEMENT), compared Africa's development to “a bird trying to fly with one wing.”

“As long as only men hold power, we cannot soar,” she said. “Many women have been left behind to the point of doubting their own abilities. That self-doubt keeps them from seeking leadership positions, and we must change that mindset.”

Kachambwa urged African governments to adopt inclusive policies that make it easier for women to enter leadership roles, arguing that empowerment must be structural as well as psychological.

Sen. Dr. Usta Kaitesi said Rwanda's experience shows progress is possible when inclusion is a national priority.

“Rwanda serves as a classroom for others,” Kaitesi said. “We have built institutions that prepare future leaders and show what's achievable. This forum should inspire women to share experiences, identify barriers, and replicate success stories across Africa.”

Rwanda leads the world in women's parliamentary representation, with women holding 63.75% of seats in the lower chamber and 50% in the Senate.

The conference was organized by the African School of Governance (ASG) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the African Union Commission (AUC).

Participants agreed that mentorship, solidarity and supportive legislation are key to ensuring women have an equal voice in shaping Africa's future.

Thelma Ekiyor Named Global CEO of Women for Women International

Mugisha John — 2025-10-23T11:28:23Z

Women for Women International (WfWI) has appointed Nigerian development expert Thelma Ekiyor as its new global chief executive officer, the organization announced Thursday.

Ekiyor, who has more than 25 years of experience in international development, has built an award-winning career focused on women's economic empowerment and social entrepreneurship.

“She stood out among a shortlist of brilliant candidates,” said WfWI Board Chair Nunu Ntshingila. “Her experience, talent, and leadership, along with her commitment to supporting women to transform their lives and communities, made her the ideal choice.”

Ekiyor succeeds Marie Clarke, who has served as acting CEO for the past nine months.

Before joining WfWI, Ekiyor held leadership roles in several prominent organizations, including the Nigeria Office for Philanthropy and Impact Investing, SME.NG, and the TY Danjuma Foundation. She co-founded Afrigrants, Nigeria's largest all-women accelerator providing financing for micro-businesses, and served as chair of the West African Civil Society Institute in Ghana.

Throughout her career, Ekiyor has worked across the private sector, governments, civil society, media, and philanthropy, fostering innovation and building partnerships. She has served on the International Advisory Board of the Global Centre on Responsibility to Protect in New York and co-founded Women in Philanthropy & Impact, supporting African women's leadership in philanthropy worldwide.

“I am passionate about investing in women and creating opportunities that drive social impact,” Ekiyor said. “Women for Women International's mission supporting women survivors of war and women-led enterprises is very close to my heart. I am excited to join a team committed to helping every woman reach her full potential.”

Ekiyor takes the helm amid global shifts in the development sector, bringing extensive expertise to guide WfWI into its next chapter.

Rural Women Told Their Development Boosts the Nation

Administrator — 2025-10-16T10:18:06Z

Minister of Gender and Family Promotion, Consolée Uwimana, told rural women Wednesday that living in the countryside is not a barrier to personal or national development. She urged them to seize the opportunities available to improve their livelihoods and contribute to the country's growth.

Uwimana spoke in Nyagatare District, Karangazi Sector, Rwisirabo Cell, during celebrations for the International Day of Rural Women, held under the theme “A Woman is Valuable.”

The minister praised rural women for their critical role in advancing family and national development. She said women in agriculture, livestock, and other local enterprises are the backbone of Rwanda's economy.

"Rural women are the heart of the country's development. When a woman improves her life, her family prospers, and the nation advances. We need men and women to work together, as we have seen here in Nyagatare," Uwimana said.

She said the day was also an opportunity to reflect on ways to further improve rural women's living standards, boost agricultural productivity, diversify income-generating activities beyond farming, and enhance participation in decision-making processes.

Uwimana also criticized households plagued by conflict and condemned behaviors that hinder development, including neglecting family responsibilities, poor childcare, and alcoholism.

"Living in rural areas is not a limitation. The government has provided opportunities, and those who use them wisely can surpass many living in urban areas," she said.

During the event, 178 residents of Nyagatare District were recognized for outstanding contributions to family development, including men and women who have promoted peaceful and prosperous households.

Local authorities said the district has 144 women's cooperatives that, when well managed, help rural women achieve tangible improvements in their livelihoods.

First Lady Jeannette Kagame Wins Global Award for Women's Health Advocacy

Mugisha John — 2025-10-06T13:10:25Z

Rwanda's First Lady, Jeannette Kagame, has been honored with the FIGO Distinguished Recognition Award in Women's Health by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) for her long-standing efforts to promote women's health and empowerment.

The award was presented during the 25th FIGO World Congress in Cape Town, South Africa, and was received on her behalf by Rwanda's Ambassador to South Africa, Emmanuel Hategeka.

FIGO said Mrs. Kagame has shown exceptional leadership for more than two decades through initiatives that improve women's and girls' lives, especially in education, health, and gender equality. Her foundation, Imbuto Foundation, has championed girls' education, promoted gender balance in schools, and inspired young people to find solutions to issues such as teenage pregnancy.

In a statement, FIGO praised her “visionary leadership that has transformed how the world views the role of First Ladies in improving citizens' well-being.”

“This award is a well-deserved and remarkable recognition,” FIGO said.

The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics is a global organization of 142 national societies working to advance women's health and rights. Since it began granting awards in 1997, FIGO has honored 178 women worldwide for their impact on maternal and reproductive health.

Mrs. Kagame's recognition underscores her continued commitment to championing initiatives that empower women and girls, improve reproductive health, and reduce maternal and infant mortality — both in Rwanda and across Africa.

Rayon Sports WFC Rewarded for Historic CECAFA Final Run

Mugisha John — 2025-09-15T09:52:24Z

Rayon Sports Women's Football Club (WFC) has been awarded 5 million Rwandan francs by the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) after reaching the final of the CECAFA Women's Club Championship in Kenya.

The team secured their spot on Saturday by defeating Uganda's Kampala Queens in a dramatic penalty shootout, 4-3, after a goalless 120 minutes. Their achievement marks the first time a Rwandan women's team has reached the final of this regional tournament.

FERWAFA's Executive Committee granted the 5 million Rwf bonus in recognition of the milestone. Sources indicate that 2.5 million Rwf came from FERWAFA President Fabrice Shema personally, while the rest was contributed by other federation officials.

A Rayon Sports WFC official said that Nitika Gicanda, FERWAFA's Commissioner for Women's Football, informed the team that even higher rewards would be provided if they won the final.

The bonus adds to support already provided by Rayon Sports' management, led by Twagirayezu Thaddée. Earlier, he told the players that 3 million Rwf would be given for reaching the semifinals, with additional funds for making it to the final. Before traveling to Kenya, FERWAFA had also allocated 10 million Rwf to assist with preparations.

The CECAFA Women's Club Championship concludes on Tuesday after ten days of competition. Rayon Sports WFC will face Tanzania's JKT Queens in the final. JKT Queens advanced after defeating Kenya's Police Bullets in a penalty shootout, 4-2, following a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time.

Reaching the final is a historic moment for Rwandan women's football and highlights the growing competitiveness of clubs in the region.

Digital Divide Slows Women's Council Work in Southern Province

Administrator — 2025-09-06T15:59:01Z

Representatives of the National Women's Council (CNF) at the cell and sector levels in Rwanda's Southern Province say their work is being slowed by the lack of computers, making it difficult to collect and submit timely reports.

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.

Women Launch Grassroots Drive to Fight Family Conflicts, Teen Pregnancies

Administrator — 2025-09-05T08:11:58Z

Women leaders in Rwanda's Western Province have launched a community initiative aimed at curbing family conflicts and addressing challenges facing young people, including teenage pregnancies and domestic violence.

The initiative, known as “Tuzitire tutaronerwa,” loosely translated as “Let's fence before we lose,” was unveiled during the National Women's Council general assembly held this week in Karongi District.

Organizers said the program seeks to promote dialogue within households, mentor children from an early age, and encourage responsible behavior among young people.

“We have seen many cases of teenage pregnancies and families breaking apart due to conflicts,” one participant told state broadcaster RBA. “After analyzing the situation, we realized that these problems had gone beyond the limit, and that's when we decided to launch this initiative.”

Western Province Governor Jean Bosco Ntibitura said the women's commitment to strengthening family welfare and community development would yield tangible results if fully implemented.

“What we ask of women, based on the goals they have set, is to put their commitments into action because their contribution is very significant,” Ntibitura said.

Under the program, women pledged to help at least two households per village lift themselves out of poverty, an effort expected to reach 7,300 households across the province. They also committed to rescuing 12,000 children from malnutrition and reconciling about 3,700 families facing disputes.

The assembly emphasized the role of women in Rwanda's national development plan, which aims to transform the country into a high-income economy by 2050.