As the world marks International Women’s Day, seasoned lawyer Angele Buzayire reflects on nearly two decades in the legal profession, describing law as more than a career, but a vocation that shaped her life and purpose. Buzayire, who will mark 20 years in legal practice next year, is one of the longest-serving female lawyers in Rwanda. Currently serves as President of the Disciplinary Committee of the Rwanda Bar Association and is a Council Member of the East African Law Society (EALS), where she serves as Deputy Treasurer and representative of female lawyers. She previously served as Dean of the Bar Council. In an interview with The New Times, Buzayire shared insights into her journey, the challenges she faced as a woman in law, and the progress women have made in the profession. Early inspiration Asked what inspired her to pursue law, Buzayire said her decision was influenced by her natural interest in social sciences and understanding society. “My decision to pursue law was first inspired by my natural inclination toward social sciences. I have always been a sociable person, deeply interested in understanding people and society,” she said. She recalled that when she went to university, her late father, a medical doctor, initially hoped she would follow in his footsteps and study medicine. “When he realised that I would not pursue that path, he told me something that stayed with me: if he had not studied medicine, he would have chosen law,” she said. “In many ways, that statement stayed with me. It felt almost like a quiet encouragement. Once I started law school, I quickly realised that I had found my true calling. From that moment on, law became not just a profession but a vocation.” Balancing career and family With 19 years practice behind her, Buzayire explained that the early stages of her career were challenging as a woman. “The early years were challenging, particularly in balancing my professional responsibilities with my role as a mother and a wife,” she said. “At the time, I had two-year-old twins, and I was also beginning my career as a trainee lawyer. I felt a strong responsibility not to disappoint the law firm that had trusted me with the opportunity to start my professional journey.” Financial challenges also marked the beginning of her career. “Like many young lawyers, I first had to learn the profession before expecting financial rewards. Sometimes even my husband wondered why I was investing so much energy when the financial return was still minimal,” she added. Despite these challenges, she remained committed to building her career. “However, I remained determined and committed to building my career step by step. Looking back today, I am truly grateful that I persevered.” Leadership milestones Throughout her career, Buzayire has held several leadership positions within the legal profession. “One of the most defining moments of my career was being elected as a member of the Council of the Rwanda Bar Association,” she said. “It was a very emotional moment for me because I have always considered myself primarily a practitioner. Most of my time, from Monday to Friday, is spent in different courts advocating for my clients.” According to her, serving in the bar’s leadership opened a new dimension in her professional life. “Being entrusted with a leadership role within the bar allowed me to experience another dimension of the profession: contributing to the administrative leadership and participating in decisions that shape the future of our bar.” She added that the role also created opportunities at the regional level. “This experience also opened doors at the regional level, including the opportunity to serve within the East African Law Society, which has been another important milestone in my professional journey.” Progress for women in law Buzayire believes major progress has been made for women in the legal profession over the years. “When the Kigali Bar was established by law in 1997, there were only a handful of women lawyers, about seven in total. They were pioneers who inspired us to believe that women are as equally capable as men despite the many responsibilities society places on them,” she said. Today, the situation has changed considerably. “The number of women lawyers has grown significantly, reaching several hundred, and many now hold leadership positions within the bar. This progress is encouraging.” However, she noted that some challenges persist. “By nature, women experience pregnancy, maternity, and childcare responsibilities, which sometimes lead clients or even law firms to perceive men as more available or more flexible.” She also pointed out that certain stereotypes continue to affect opportunities for women. “Unfortunately, some persistent stereotypes still suggest that women are less resilient or less capable, which means women often feel the need to work twice as hard to prove their competence.” “These perceptions can also affect opportunities, including collaboration contracts or mentorship opportunities for young female trainee lawyers.” Message to young women As the world celebrates International Women’s Day, Buzayire encouraged young women aspiring to join the legal profession to believe in their abilities. “My message is simple, women should believe in their capacity to achieve extraordinary things and to contribute meaningfully to justice, economic development, and leadership,” she said. She emphasised that women lawyers play an important role in advancing these values. “Women lawyers, in particular, are uniquely positioned to promote these values with dignity, professionalism, and resilience.” “I encourage young women to remain confident in their abilities and faithful to the belief that they have the power to make a difference. Society needs that strength and that contribution for it to continue progressing.”
