With the highly anticipated Women Deliver 2023 Conference (WD2023) just around the corner, Rwanda is preparing to host this event which will be held both in-person and virtually from Monday, July 17 to 20. Part of why Rwanda won the bid to host it was its ranking as a global leader in gender equality, with almost all gender gaps almost closed. In light of this, The New Times interviewed different international students on their experience as women living in Rwanda today. Their experience in Rwanda provides insights into the multifaceted aspects of studying abroad. While they appreciate the safety, friendliness, and respect they encounter in Rwanda, they also navigate challenges such as cultural expectations, language barriers, and personal adjustments. Their collective voices shed light on the unique journey of being a woman in Rwanda as an international student, ultimately highlighting the positive aspects of studying in a peaceful and welcoming nation. Tina Munang, Cameroon, Medical student at the University of Rwanda I appreciate the high levels of security and safety in the country, allowing me to navigate the streets with a sense of peace. Rwandans are so supportive and friendly, this includes my classmates, friends, and colleagues at the hospital during my clerkship. On the downside, which however doesn't cancel the positives, it entails trying to put on the social garments of the typical Rwandan lady in some scenarios. The extremely reserved nature of women in the country makes certain internationals to tone down their character and voices in certain situations, in order not to be viewed as atypical. Some traits attributed to a woman in their context, (which in my opinion have been far stretched) sometimes pose a limitation to their voices. Though sometimes one has to forcefully put on the garment, other times I just decide to be me regardless of the stares and judgments. In addition, the daily constant battle with the language barrier creates a lot of inconvenience. Jane Babirye, Uganda, Mass Media and Communication student at Mount Kenya University Being a woman in Rwanda is a good thing on my side. The country is safe and the population as a whole respects women. It's not everywhere in the world that a woman will be allowed to take a seat in the bus because she's pregnant. Where I come from, some lousy men are heard bullying such women on who impregnated them and how they 'love' sex. Walking on the streets downtown is comfortable for me as a woman, you never hear men making passes at you and abusing you for dressing whichever way you decide. It also feels good to just be in a country where you know that security is guaranteed in case your rights are violated in whatever way. Siqla Naeem, Pakistan, Business Management student at Mount Kenya University Rwanda My journey as an international student in Rwanda started from my enrollment at Akilah Institute. Despite initial rumours and challenges, I found a supportive community that helped me rise above negativity and excel academically. As I joined Mount Kenya University, I encountered a peaceful and inclusive environment. I’ve overcame language barriers and secured internships and job opportunities further boosting my confidence and gratitude to how Rwandans treat foreigners. Ogbuagu Bridget Chimdinma, Nigeria, Software Engineering student at African Leadership University My respect for the empowerment I’ve witnessed among Rwandan women. In contrast to my home country, where sexism and sexual assault are prevalent, I appreciate the sense of safety and respect that Rwandan women experience. I also find Rwandan women to be typically quiet and reserved, which occasionally makes me feel out of place with my outspoken nature. Mohlakore Mokhehle, Lesotho, Medical student at University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) Rwanda is full of friendliness and gender equality. I’ve witnessed during my time in Rwanda the sense of community and collective effort displayed during Umuganda, where men, women, and children work together to maintain communal roads. This has left a lasting impression on me. I also appreciate the modest dressing of Rwandan women and can’t wait to explore more of Rwanda. Stella Kasamba, Malawi, Medical student at University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) My experience in Rwanda is amazing really- the cleanliness, safety, and openness of the country is commendable. I’ve noticed the freedom of interaction between genders without societal judgment, highlighting the open-mindedness of the people. Even though I haven’t toured well Kigali, my overall experience in Rwanda would be described as remarkable. Sarabelle Odero, Kenya, Entrepreneurial Leadership student at African Leadership University In Rwanda, I feel safe and respected, unlike in my home country where sexism and sexual assault are pervasive. The reserved nature of Rwandan women, makes me feel somewhat outspoken. Despite these differences, I value the acceptance and tolerance I’ve encountered.
