For many years, the prevailing narrative suggested that women were not suited for high-ranking or decision-making positions. However, Rwanda has defied these odds, with women now making up 55 percent of the judiciary. They include Domitilla Mukantaganzwa, 60, the Chief Justice – one of the five key positions in the country’s governance – who was appointed last December 3, replacing Faustin Ntezilyayo. ALSO READ: The rise of Domitilla Mukantaganzwa to Chief Justice As the world marks International Women Judges' Day, for the fourth time, Rwanda celebrates significant strides in gender inclusivity within the judiciary. Observed annually, on March 10, this day recognizes the contributions of female judges worldwide and highlights the importance of women’s participation in decision-making to achieve democracy and equality. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared March 10 as International Women Judges' Day in a resolution adopted on April 28, 2021. The first official observance took place on March 10, 2022. ALSO READ: Umugwaneza’s journey to helm of East Africa magistrates' body Rwanda’s progress In an interview, Harrison Mutabazi, the spokesperson for the Judiciary, emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to gender equality in leadership roles. “There has been significant progress in the judiciary regarding women’s representation in leadership. Out of 58 heads of jurisdictions, from the Supreme Court to primary courts, 23 are women—around 40 percent of judicial leadership positions,” he noted. He highlighted that Rwanda’s Chief Justice, the Vice President of the Court of Appeal [Justice Agnes Nyirandabaruta Murorunkwere], and the Secretary General of the Judiciary are women. Anitha Kayirangwa, the current Secretary General of the Judiciary, took over the role in December 2023 from another woman, Beth Murora. Additionally, women such as Justice Aloysie Cyanzayire and Justice Isabelle Kalihangabo hold senior positions on the Supreme Court bench. Among others, Cyanzayire served as the country’s first woman Chief Justice and President of the High Council of the Judiciary (2003 – 2011), as Deputy Chief Justice and President of the Department of Gacaca Courts (2000 – 2003), as Secretary General of the Ministry of Justice (1998-2000), and as Director of Legislation, Litigation and the State services to the community at the Ministry of Justice (1995 – 1998). Prior to her October 2023 appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court, Kalihangabo was the Deputy Secretary General of Rwanda Investigation Bureau since 2018. Previously, for about four years, she was the Permanent Secretary or Solicitor General of the Ministry of Justice, and Assistant Attorney General (2007), among her other positions. “This demonstrates that gender equality is a priority in the judiciary. Of the 381 judges, 211 are women representing 55 percent, which is a testament to the country’s commitment to balancing gender representation in leadership,” Mutabazi added. Asked whether female judges face distinct challenges, Mutabazi explained that the judiciary does not recognize any gender-specific obstacles. “The challenges faced by judges are uniform, regardless of gender. Our approach is to address issues affecting all judges collectively to ensure a fair working environment,” he said. ‘Women judges ensure a more gender-sensitive justice system’ He emphasized that the nature of judicial work relies more on intellectual capacity than physical labour, ensuring that both male and female judges receive equal support and opportunities. Mutabazi encouraged young women to consider careers in the judiciary. He said women have excelled in leadership roles within Rwanda’s justice system. “The judiciary is not a male-dominated field. Women have proven that they can succeed in this profession. With dedication, ethics, and continuous skill-building, they can climb the ranks and make meaningful contributions to justice,” he said. Sophie Ingabire, a judge at Mukamira Primary Court, explained what motivated her to join the judiciary. “My passion for justice stemmed from witnessing injustice against a close family member. This inspired me to study law and serve in the judiciary,” she said. She acknowledged the difficulty of balancing family life with a demanding career. “One of the biggest challenges is being away from my children due to work commitments. Traveling every weekend means I miss precious moments with them,” she said. However, she believes women judges bring unique perspectives to the courtroom, particularly in cases involving domestic violence, gender-based discrimination, and child welfare. “Women judges often ensure these issues are handled with the necessary sensitivity and depth, contributing to a more gender-sensitive justice system,” Ingabire noted. While she commends Rwanda’s progress in gender equality within the judiciary, Ingabire pointed out that challenges remain, including what she said was the need for better policies to support work-life balance. Her advice to aspiring female judges is “stay confident in your abilities, persist through challenges, and build a strong support network.” She added: “Determination, mentorship, and continuous education are crucial for success in the judiciary.” Geraldine Umugwaneza, a judge in the Court of Appeal and the second Vice President of Rwanda Judicial Officers Association, as well as the President of the East African Magistrates and Judges Association, emphasized the progress Rwanda has made in accommodating female judges. “In my 25 years in the legal field, I have not encountered specific challenges simply because I am a woman,” she said. To young women aspiring to join the judiciary, she advised that: “Judges serve people seeking justice, and integrity, patience, attention to detail, and good listening skills, are essential. “Aspiring judges should work hard academically, uphold strong ethical values, and take advantage of the opportunities available to them.”
