RUBAVU - Rubavu residents and students were, this week, advised to fight Gender Based Violence in their communities, if they are to register meaningful development.

The call was made as part of GBV week, a period dedicated to sensitise the public about the vice. GBV week was launched on Monday.

Dr. Agnes Binangwaho, the Minister of Health, emphasised that GBV affects the development of the country.

There is zero-tolerance for corruption, a similar approach, involving women and men, should also be applied to the fight against GBV, the Minister noted.

The Inspector General of Police, Emmanuel Gasana, said that police alone cannot fulfil its entire security obligation without the support of local communities.

He emphasised that the GBV week is crucial as it cements the cooperation between civilians and security organs.

Students also commended the week-long campaign, saying it will increase awareness about violence especially against women.

"If this concept could sink into people, many girls who drop out of school because they have been abused by teachers and sugar daddies would stop,” said Hamis Turahimana, a student at Gacuba Secondary School in Rubavu District.

He added that law enforcers should be more vigilant and protect both girls and boys who are sexually abused by their teachers and other adults in cross generational sex.

"Like it is in other areas, cases of GBV are prevalent in this province; that’s why we must work hard to eradicate it,” Gasana added.

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