In an interview with pureafricanews.com, a lawyer Me Aime Patrick Irakuzwa, who is also the Director of Citizen Voice today, addressed the issue of violence that continues to occur within Rwandan families and workplaces. He explained that violence falls into four main categories, each with serious consequences for victims and society as a whole.
He stated: “Violence is any act committed against a person with the intention of causing harm or degrading their dignity. It can affect both children and adults, yet some victims do not even realize they are being abused.”
Forms of violence
Sexual Violence
Me Irakuzwa explained that sexual violence often occurs even within marriage, where one partner may force the other into sexual relations without consent.
He said: “Although married couples have responsibilities toward one another as husband and wife, this does not give one partner the right to force the other into sexual intercourse. There must be communication and mutual understanding, because forcing someone is a criminal offense.”
Its consequences include psychological trauma, loss of trust between spouses, family breakdown and divorce, sexually transmitted infections. Rwanda’s Penal Code criminalizes sexual violence, whether committed within marriage or outside it, especially when force, threats, or coercion are involved.
Physical Violence
This is the most commonly reported form of violence in criminal investigations, particularly assault and bodily harm. Me Irakuzwa noted that it often stems from family conflicts or harmful cultural practices. Statistics from investigative authorities show that assault and battery cases are among the most prevalent offenses, highlighting gaps in peaceful conflict resolution.
Its consequences include disability or death, psychological trauma, family breakdown, children growing up exposed to violence. Rwandan law provides severe penalties for anyone who assaults or injures another person, depending on the gravity of the harm inflicted.
Emotional (Psychological) Violence
Although less visible, emotional abuse is carried out through words and behavior and can have devastating effects.
Me Irakuzwa gave examples of spouses belittling one another, such as telling a partner they brought nothing into the marriage or that they would be nothing without them. “Emotional abuse is very common but often hidden. Yet it can cause deeper trauma than physical violence.” Said He.
Its consequences include psychological trauma, Loss of self-esteem and dignity, Self-hatred and depression, Substance abuse or suicide. The law protects every person’s dignity and honor. Emotional abuse involving harassment or degrading treatment can be prosecuted under Rwandan law.
Economic (Property-Related) Violence
This form of violence occurs when one family member takes control of shared property, selling or using it without consulting others.
Me Irakuzwa pointed out that some husbands physically abuse their wives in order to separate and then sell family property. He added that certain cultural beliefs contribute to this issue by giving men unilateral authority over family assets.
He stated: “There are cases where a husband beats his wife so he can divorce her and sell the family property. This is fueled by cultural norms that consider the husband as having the final say over property.”
Its consequences include Extreme poverty, Family disintegration, Children left in difficult living condition, Conflicts that may lead to further crimes.
Rwandan family law stipulates that joint marital property must be managed by mutual consent. No spouse is allowed to sell shared property without the agreement of the other.
Workplace Violence
Me Irakuzwa also addressed violence in the workplace, where some employers exploit workers, particularly those without formal contracts or whose contracts are not respected.
He said: “There are gaps in enforcing laws against employers who violate workers’ rights. Some employees are dismissed without notice, while others are deprived of their legal entitlements.”
Rwandan labor law states that an employee cannot be dismissed without valid reason and proper notice, and that all labor rights must be respected.
“Understand what violence it is not limited to physical assault and often has hidden forms. Do not remain silent; victims or witnesses should report abuse. Seek help from relevant authorities such as the Police, Isange One Stop Center, courts, or legal aid organizations like Citizen Voice. Promote dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution in families and workplaces and teach children a culture of respect so they grow up knowing that violence is a crime.” Advised Me Irakuzwa.
“Some victims do not even realize they are being abused or do not know where to begin seeking justice. Once a person understands they have suffered abuse, even if they cannot immediately go to court, they should seek legal support and guidance.” He concluded.
Violence in all its forms sexual, physical, emotional, and economic has serious consequences for individuals and families. Although Rwandan laws strongly address these offenses, combating violence requires collaboration among government institutions, families, and citizens.
Preventing violence begins at home, through mutual respect, open dialogue, and awareness of each person’s rights.
