Vision Media

Minister Warns Youth Misled by Lies About Genocide

Mugisha R. John — 2026-03-16T12:37:11Z

Spreading false stories about Rwanda's history continues to affect the country's youth, who are growing up in a new era focused on national unity, the minister responsible for Rwandan unity said.

Dr. Bizimana Jean Damascene, Minister of Unity of Rwandans and National Duties, told Rwandans living in Europe last month that some young people are still influenced by lies from older generations who fear the truth about their past crimes.

“Some elders in the diaspora left Rwanda because of crimes they committed during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. They distort history, lie to their children, and mislead youth because they fear exposure,” Bizimana said.

He said these lies are often spread on social media and reinforced by parents who seek to protect their reputations. Some of those responsible include former government officials implicated in planning and carrying out the genocide, as well as individuals accused of genocide and crimes against humanity who later fled abroad.

Bizimana also warned that some people who were not directly involved in the genocide nevertheless embrace ideologies that enabled the atrocities. This, he said, stems from a history of governance that oppressed some citizens while favoring others, making it hard for them to accept living in a united Rwanda where all citizens have equal rights.

“Young people who do not understand the truth can easily be misled by subtle schemes designed to divert them from the country's path toward inclusive development,” he said.

The minister urged youth to study the true history of Rwanda to strengthen their commitment to unity and development. Visiting genocide memorials and liberation sites, he said, can teach lessons that foster love for the country and inspire young Rwandans to work for its future.

“Visiting these sites inspires young people to contribute to the country, focusing on current efforts rather than dwelling on past events,” said one young visitor to the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

Leaders from other countries who visit Rwanda also praise its efforts to promote reconciliation. George Psiachas, Greece's ambassador to Rwanda, said a country united in purpose can build sustainable development that leaves no one behind.

Youth Urged to Avoid Temptations, Protect Their Future

Mugisha R. John — 2026-03-08T17:22:46Z

The Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF) is urging Rwandan youth to educate themselves and avoid temptations, including sexual immorality, drugs, and other behaviors that could harm their futures.

Speaking March 7 during a youth forum attended by more than 200 young people, Permanent Secretary Mireille Batamuriza said decisions made today shape the paths of youth and their future children. The event was organized by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Arts Development, the Rwanda Development Board, Imbuto Foundation, Global Citizen, and other partners.

Batamuriza said young people must know their abilities, family support, and community resources to make choices that lead to a positive future. Early sexual activity, she noted, has serious consequences, and leaders must engage youth early to help them understand the impact of their actions.

Dr. Rukundo Athanase, director of health facility governance at the Ministry of Health, said educating youth about health issues helps prevent risky behavior and ensures they access accurate information.

Global Citizen Africa Regional Director Ifeoma Chuks-Adue highlighted that Africa's future lies in its youth, who make up 70% of the continent's population. She stressed the importance of preventing school dropouts, teenage pregnancies, and other threats to youth development.

NISR statistics show teenage pregnancies among girls 15–19 increased from 5% in 2020 to 8% in 2025. New HIV infections among Rwandan youth 15–24 totaled 9,000 in 2023, representing 35% of all new cases.

Officials said continuing youth education on health and life choices is crucial to ensure informed decisions and a stronger future for Rwanda.

Rwanda Reports Drop in Youth Unemployment as Job Creation Expands

Mugisha R. John — 2026-01-24T09:03:41Z

Youth unemployment in Rwanda fell significantly in the final quarter of 2025, reflecting gradual improvements in job creation and labor market participation, according to a new Labor Force Survey by the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda.

The survey shows that youth unemployment declined to 14.1% in the fourth quarter of 2025, down from 18% during the same period in 2024. Overall unemployment nationwide stood at 11.7%, representing about 649,800 people and marking a 3-percentage-point drop from the previous year.

Women continued to face higher unemployment, at 13%, compared with 10.5% among men. Youth unemployment remained higher than the national average, while unemployment among adults stood at 10%.

Urban areas recorded a slightly lower unemployment rate of 11%, compared with 12% in rural areas.

The report indicates that Rwanda's working-age population, defined as those aged 16 and above, reached 8.6 million in early 2025. More than 4 million people, or 56.7%, were employed. Employment was higher among men, at 63.7%, than women, at 50.4%. Youth employment stood at 52.2%, while 60% of adults were employed. Urban employment reached 64%, compared with 53.4% in rural areas.

Among the 4.8 million employed in the fourth quarter, 39.6% worked in agriculture, 15.5% in industry and 44.9% in services.

Nearly half of those outside the labor force were engaged in subsistence farming, while others were students, elderly people, persons with disabilities or discouraged job seekers.

Unemployment peaked at more than 24% between 2021 and 2022 before declining steadily. Youth Minister Jean Nepo Abdallah Utumatwishima said some young people miss opportunities due to inadequate preparation. Under Rwanda's second National Strategy for Transformation, the government aims to create 250,000 jobs annually to support youth employment.

Reports Cite Widespread Gender-Based Violence, Rising Teen Pregnancy

Mugisha R. John — 2026-01-24T08:55:31Z

Multiple reports in Rwanda show that gender-based violence against students particularly girls remains widespread, contributing to rising teenage pregnancy and forcing many girls out of school

A 2023 study by the Young Women Christian Association (YWCA) Rwanda, conducted in the districts of Bugesera and Kicukiro, found that students face sexual and gender-based violence while traveling to school, at school and on their way home. The study surveyed 661 students from 12 secondary schools and 335 students from higher learning institutions.

More than 43% of secondary school students said they had witnessed boys committing gender-based violence against girls. Over half reported seeing boys force girls into sexual acts, while more than 80% said girls were verbally abused for refusing romantic relationships. Many respondents also reported physical violence, threats and degrading language, including harassment targeting girls during menstruation.

The study also highlighted alleged sexual abuse by teachers. Nearly 80% of secondary school students said teachers asked girls for sexual favors. More than 87% reported that teachers promised academic assistance, while 88% said teachers offered better grades in exchange for sex. Others said teachers used intimidation when students refused. Despite these reports, 95% of students said they rejected such advances.

At universities and other higher learning institutions, most respondents said sexual relationships between students and lecturers were uncommon, though some acknowledged they do occur.

Separate findings from the National Commission for Human Rights in 2023 and 2024 show that teenage pregnancy remains a serious challenge. Among girls surveyed, 68% under age 18 became pregnant as a result of defilement. Others cited rape or unintended pregnancies from consensual relationships. Most were impregnated by boyfriends or neighbors, with perpetrators typically under age 24.

The commission found that gender-based violence has severe consequences for education. About 78% of girls who became pregnant dropped out of school permanently, while only 5% continued their studies during pregnancy.

Judicial statistics for 2024 and 2025 show more than 6,100 defilement cases were prosecuted. National health surveys indicate teenage pregnancy rates rose to 8% in 2025, underscoring persistent challenges to girls' safety and access to education.

Digital Youth Program Empowers Millions to Access Services

Administrator — 2025-10-17T17:29:03Z

Since 2017, Rwanda's “Intore in Technology” youth initiative has trained more than five million citizens, equipping them to access essential services through mobile phones, officials said.

The program, run by the Rwanda Information Society Authority (RISA), teaches residents in rural and urban areas to independently use digital tools to pay utility bills, access social programs like Ejo Heza, and navigate online platforms such as Irembo.

The milestone was celebrated on October 17, 2025, during Rwanda's Technology Knowledge Day, which also highlighted the achievements of the Intore in Technology program. The event brought together more than 2,000 youth from across the country.

RISA Director General Antoine Sebera

RISA Director General Antoine Sebera said the initiative has bridged the digital divide in rural communities. “The Intore in Technology have helped us bring the benefits of technology to all Rwandans. Our youth teach citizens in villages how to access services digitally at no cost,” he said.

Youth volunteers report that the program has spared citizens from traveling long distances or waiting in lines. Delphina Mutesi of Karenge Cell in Gatsibo District said she has helped more than 400 people access services through their phones since June. “Now, citizens no longer need to travel to request services—they can do it from their phones,” she said.

Germain Mvukiyehe from Muhondo Sector in Gakenke District said he has assisted 914 people, saving them both travel costs and time.

However, challenges remain. Some citizens cannot read or write, while others do not yet understand the benefits of digital services. Denyse Tuyishimire of Nyanza District said, “When I meet someone who cannot read or write, it is challenging. Some people also need extended training to see the value of digital tools.”

According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), 85% of Rwandans owned mobile phones between 2017 and 2024. The Ministry of Information and Communication Technology and Innovation (MINICT) reports that over 40% of mobile phone users have smartphones, and ongoing programs aim to increase this number.

MINICT Permanent Secretary Eraste Rurangwa

MINICT Permanent Secretary Eraste Rurangwa emphasized that technology must reach all citizens to achieve Rwanda's 2050 vision. “Technology is the foundation. We are building society in a way that leaves no one behind,” he said.

Research from FinScope 2024 shows that Mobile Money users have grown from 62% in 2020 to 86% in 2024. Use of SACCO services is 51%, while insurance coverage is 13%. MINICT's 2025/26 report indicates that over 500,000 citizens will receive basic digital literacy training this year. The government aims for 100% of Rwandans to have basic digital skills by 2029, up from 53% in 2024.

Youth Projects Drive Employment, Mental Health Initiatives in Rwanda

Administrator, Mugisha John — 2025-10-11T12:31:20Z

Rwandan youth are turning innovative ideas into action, launching projects that tackle national challenges while creating jobs for their peers.

The Ministry of Youth and Arts Development (MOYA) is encouraging young entrepreneurs to take advantage of opportunities that contribute to Rwanda's goal of expanding employment across the country.

On Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, 15 standout projects from the sixth cycle of the Innovation Accelerator, or iAccelerator, were recognized for their progress and potential in the job market. The projects were selected from an initial pool of 40, with 10 receiving Rwf 10 million each and six months of mentorship to refine their ventures.

Marie Ange Raissa Uwamungu, founder of Impanuro Girls Initiative, said programs like iAccelerator help young women and girls build confidence and financial literacy. “Before iAccelerator, it could take years to find funding or support. This program gives young entrepreneurs a chance to act on their ideas quickly,” she said.

Celine Diana Bizimungu, whose project Kozzy Wellness focuses on mental health, said the support allowed her team to expand rapidly. “Since receiving funding last year, we've trained youth in schools, workplaces, and communities. We've brought in experts to discuss mental health and reached a wide audience,” she said.

Élodie Shami, CEO of Imbuto Foundation, emphasized the transformative potential of youth innovation. “These projects are more than business ideas. They show what young people can achieve when given trust, resources, and space to innovate,” Shami said. “Our goal is to help these solutions grow and connect them with experts, investors, and policymakers.”

Brave Ngabo, permanent secretary at MOYA, highlighted the importance of youth-led job creation. “The best outcomes happen when young entrepreneurs identify real needs and develop solutions that create opportunities for others,” he said.

Since its launch in December 2016, iAccelerator has helped young Rwandans develop sustainable solutions to societal problems. The program provides funding, mentorship, and training to turn ideas into impactful ventures, contributing to both innovation and employment growth across the country.

UCI 2025 Brings Joy to Kigali as Kagame Highlights Youth Potential

Mugisha John — 2025-09-28T10:45:01Z

The 2025 Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Road World Championships has brought excitement and celebration to Kigali, with President Paul Kagame emphasizing that investing in sports across Africa can unlock opportunities for the continent's youth.

Speaking at a reception for participants during the week-long championship, held from September 21 to 28, Kagame praised the event for the joy and energy it has brought to Rwandans and Africans alike.

“Investing in sports across the continent is also investing in what Africa's youth need: opportunities and the training to reach their potential,” Kagame said.

Africa is home to a predominantly young population. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), 60% of Africans are under 20, with over 400 million people aged 15 to 35 as of 2023. The continent's population is projected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, up from 1.4 billion today, with youth continuing to make up the largest segment.

President Kagame described this youthful population as a vast resource, stressing the importance of creating opportunities at home rather than seeing young people seek them abroad.

“Creating these opportunities begins with investing in sports and its infrastructure,” he said.

Kagame lauded the UCI for bringing positive energy to Kigali's streets. “From day one, the UCI brought excitement and a vibrant atmosphere. Music, cheering fans, and joy everywhere are proof of sports' unifying power. We continue to see talented athletes performing with extraordinary dedication,” he said.

He encouraged African youth to follow their dreams with commitment and patience, calling the championship a historic moment for Rwanda and the continent.

Kagame also thanked UCI leadership for trusting Rwanda and its people, adding that Rwandans were proud to contribute to the event's success. He welcomed international participants, saying: “You should all feel at home in Rwanda; our doors are open to you.”

In recognition of his support for cycling and youth development, President Kagame was honored by the UCI with a special award, acknowledging his contributions to the sport and the opportunities it creates for African youth.

UCI President David Lappartient praised the hospitality of Rwandans, noting that Kigali exceeded expectations in hosting an international championship. He also acknowledged President Kagame's support: “We leave Rwanda with unforgettable memories and hope the championship has left an enduring impression on you as well.”

The championship concludes this Sunday with the men's final road race, covering 267.5 kilometers.

Eastern Province Leaders Tackle School Dropouts, Teenage Pregnancies

Administrator — 2025-09-25T08:27:23Z

Leaders in Eastern Province have prioritized addressing family-related challenges, including school dropouts and teenage pregnancies, during a two-day provincial retreat held this week.

The retreat brought together provincial leaders, district executive committee members, council chairpersons, and representatives from government institutions operating in the region. Discussions focused on obstacles affecting community development, such as family conflicts, child labor, and teenage pregnancies.

Governor Pudence Rubingisa said the issues often prevent families from improving their livelihoods. “Family issues are our biggest concern. We have children out of school because they are used for labor. Even if the numbers are small, it worries us because these are our children. We also have girls who fall pregnant, and while we support them, those responsible must be held accountable,” Rubingisa said.

Gatsibo District Mayor Richard Gasana said the retreat allowed leaders to share innovative initiatives and strengthen collaboration across all administrative levels. “We committed to solving identified challenges by working together, from the district level down to villages. Previously, not all structures were aligned, so this retreat gave us a clear roadmap to collaborate effectively,” Gasana said.

Participants also resolved to boost innovation to tackle community challenges, build staff capacity, strengthen teamwork for faster implementation of government programs, improve service delivery, and use technology for data collection and monitoring performance.

Youth Urged to Reject Genocide Hatred and Build Unity

Mugisha John — 2025-09-24T08:20:54Z

Minister of National Unity and Civic Engagement, Dr. Jean Damascene Bizimana, has called on young people born to parents who participated in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi to stop denying their parents' crimes and spreading hatred.

Speaking at a youth dialogue titled “Youth, Know Your History,” Dr. Bizimana said some children of perpetrators feel ashamed of their lineage and falsely claim to be genocide survivors, using this narrative to downplay atrocities and justify their parents' actions.

“Being born to a killer is heavy for some, and they struggle with the crimes of their parents. But fighting an evil you did not commit is wrong,” he said. “Youth should focus on Rwanda's vision of coexistence, love, peace, and unity—and guide their parents to embrace it.”

Dr. Bizimana traced Rwanda's divisions to colonial rule, which labeled the king a Tutsi and sowed ethnic separation that ultimately contributed to the genocide. He noted that while national unity has progressed, some elders still transmit ethnic biases to their children, causing confusion among the youth.

The dialogue, organized by the Ministry in partnership with Vision Jeunesse Nouvelle, drew about 350 participants from Karongi, Rusizi, and Nyamagabe districts. Attendees included former members of armed groups, motorcycle and bicycle taxi riders, small-scale cross-border traders, artisans, fishermen, and tea workers.

Dr. Bizimana's remarks reinforce Rwanda's efforts to cultivate unity and peace, urging the next generation to reject inherited hatred and actively contribute to a shared national identity.

Rwandan youth to feature in research to reshape the youth employment in ten African countries

Elie Mutangana — 2025-09-22T13:03:46Z

The Partnership for African Social and Governance Research (PASGR), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has launched a new research project that will enable youth actively to participate in making policies that address youth unemployment by creating decent jobs for the improvement of better livelihoods for young people in Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Senegal, and Côte d'Ivoire.

Named ‘African Youth Pathways to Resilience and Systems Change (AYPReS)', the project was launched in Kigali on September 10, 2025, and implementation will take three years.
The research project aims to empower young individuals by providing them with the tools and resources needed to influence policy decisions effectively. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the project seeks not only to tackle unemployment but also to create sustainable economic opportunities for a brighter future.

Participants during the Stakeholder Inception Workshop to launch the Research Project in Kigali.

Youth unemployment in Africa has remained a significant challenge that has led to erosion of human capital, social exclusion, and economic stagnation.

According to Fidele Mwizerwa, a research associate for AYPReS in Rwanda, the research aims to collect the perspectives of youth on employment and dignified work which will be vital in shaping policies across the ten African countries.

“The project will ensure that youth are considered as partners, rather than beneficiaries, in the policymaking process. The project will specifically focus on the marginalized categories of youth, such as youth with disabilities, refugees and displaced persons, rural and young women, and other youth who are considered to belong in informalities,” Mwizerwa said.

He added that with consideration of the experience of the target categories, youth will be able to influence system change by contextually pointing out their specific barriers to better livelihood.

During the Project Stakeholder Inception Workshop, which was aimed at launching the project in Kigali, Rose Njage, program officer at PASGR, said the research project will use a new innovative approach known as ‘Utafiti-Sera,' derived from the Swahili language, which is translated as ‘Research Policy.'
The model has a research-to-policy framework that systematically enables meaningful engagement of concerned stakeholders in the research process.

Rose Njage said: “It (AYPReS) will make sure that the findings from the research will influence the policy-making process. The critical aim is to involve the voice of the youth in making policies regarding employment.”

Dr. Jean Baptiste Nsenyiyumva, AYPReS Principal Investigator in Rwanda argued institutions to put the voice of youth into consideration for aligning critical problems with policies that aim to bring solutions.

"It is very important to remove the barriers that hinder the youth and ensure that we build trust and confidence in youth through capacity building," said Dr. Nsengiyumva.

The Executive director of Rwanda Union of Little People (RULP) Honorine Tuyishimire hopes that with the new research project, critical barriers that impede youth employment, especially youth with disabilities, will be considered. She revealed that some of the challenges that affect youth with disabilities include unfavorable work environment and limited infrastructure at different workplaces.

Honorine Tuyishimire said: “The rights of youth with disabilities need to be streamlined to tackle the outstanding misconception and stigma. We still witness workplaces with no facilities for persons with disabilities.”

Jean Claude Rwahama, the Director of the Social Protection Unit at the Local Administration Entities Development Agency (LODA), said that Rwanda has put mechanisms and institutions in place with the aim of addressing the specific needs of youth. He further stressed that Rwanda demonstrates a political will and good, strong visionary leadership that gives young people opportunities to thrive.

According to Rwahama, the willingness reflects a strong foundation and assurance for systems change.

“It is vital for the government to embrace the research model, as it gives opportunity for discussions between multiple stakeholders for making policies that reflect all sides' needs and ambitions,” Rwahama further noted.