PRESS RELEASE: UNFPA, ICT ministry collaborate to harness technology for gender equality, reproductive health

Kigali, Rwanda – In a significant step towards leveraging technology for social impact, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Rwanda’s Ministry of ICT and Innovation (MINICT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services and strengthen efforts to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV) through digital solutions. The partnership will focus on leveraging digital platforms and mobile technologies to deliver accurate and timely information on sexual and reproductive health and rights and the prevention of gender-based violence, including technology-facilitated gender-based violence, especially to young people and particularly women. This includes co-developing a digital application to support GBV survivors by providing essential information, case reporting mechanisms, and access to timely online support services. Additionally, it will facilitate the development of a robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) tool to track SRHR innovations, research technology-facilitated GBV, and mobilise resources to scale up these initiatives. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Paula Ingabire, Minister of ICT and Innovation, welcomed the initiative, emphasising the need for inclusive digital transformation. She emphasised that technology should be a tool for progress that leaves no one behind: “This partnership with UNFPA solidifies MINICT’s commitment to leveraging innovation to close gender gaps, enhance digital literacy, and advance the sexual and reproductive well-being of Rwandans.” She also underscored the significance of co-developing digital solutions that create safer spaces for GBV survivors to seek help, access information, and report cases, ensuring that technology serves as a powerful enabler of social good. On his part, Dr Olugbemiga Adelakin, UNFPA Country Representative for Rwanda, highlighted the transformative power of technology in addressing critical societal issues. “This partnership marks a turning point in how we use digital solutions to empower young people and women. By ensuring they have access to vital SRHR information and GBV support services, we are taking meaningful steps toward a more equitable and inclusive society,” he said. The collaboration builds on existing efforts between UNFPA and MINICT, which have worked together on various initiatives aimed at leveraging technology for social good. One of the key collaborations has been UNFPA’s support to the Hanga Pitchfest under the Hanga SRHR initiative, which fosters youth-led innovations to improve access to sexual and reproductive health services. Through this initiative, young innovators have been empowered to develop digital solutions that address critical health challenges in their communities. “We are particularly excited about the opportunities this partnership creates for engaging young people. By integrating ICT into SRHR and GBV programmes, we can develop innovative solutions that truly resonate with their needs and aspirations,” added Dr Adelakin. In addition, UNFPA and MINICT have jointly spearheaded efforts to combat technology-facilitated GBV. Under the auspices of the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF), both institutions have been involved in the development of a GBV mobile application that provides survivors with access to critical services, legal support, and emergency assistance. Another key area of collaboration is the monitoring and evaluation of youth-led innovations. Working closely with the ICT Chamber, UNFPA and MINICT have been developing a comprehensive tool to track and assess the impact of digital innovations in SRHR and GBV prevention, as well as their expansion. This initiative ensures that technology-driven solutions are evidence-based, scalable, and responsive to the needs of vulnerable populations. Beyond technology development, the agreement fosters ongoing collaboration between UNFPA and MINICT through knowledge-sharing, regular consultations, and joint resource mobilisation efforts. These initiatives will ensure that digital solutions remain relevant, responsive, and accessible to those who need them the most.

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PRESS RELEASE: UNFPA, ICT ministry collaborate to harness technology for gender equality, reproductive health