Increasing the numbers of notary offices must be an urgent priority

Something that has become an issue of concern that has come out in the public domain is the way the office of the Notary operates. As most of us are aware, many of the jobs especially in public service, as well as in some non-governmental organizations, require certified copies of the candidate’s certificates or transcripts. The government of Rwanda created the office of the Notary to ensure transparency, and efficiency with the aim of dealing with the fear of dodgy documents, while of course, finding a way to generate government revenue as well. However, it is disappointing to find, in a country like ours, we have not more than ‘ten’ people that are charged with this responsibility. On a fact finding mission, I learnt that the holders of this office are facing various problems with everyone, and especially the many job seekers, increasingly wanting their services. It seems that they are being swamped. It is also becoming a fact that getting these people’s services is becoming increasingly difficult because of their small number. If you are unable to wake up before dawn, rest assured that you can not get their service that day. A few days ago I tried to visit my area notary office but I can assure you that, after three attempts, I was frustrated by extremely long queues. The only thing I could do was to go back home and make sure I woke up as early as possible. What is especially frustrating is the fact that, despite them knowing fully well that they are few, and have many people to serve, they still go ahead and ask for leave haphazardly; therefore, increasing the work of their remaining colleagues. In Kigali, only three offices are presently working. Therefore, in an event of one of them going for leave, only two are left working; thus increasing the already long queues. Its shocking that some people are forced to come from the Provinces and sleep in lodges in order to be able to access the notary! Where does that leave those who don’t have money or relatives in Kigali to stay with? The streets I can imagine. Something must be done. The government should increase these offices. At least each province should have two offices and two for each district in Kigali. Or alternatively they should increase the number of people charged with the responsibility, so that in case of the absence of one, the other can fill the gap. It painful for one to wake up as early as six and still fails to get the service one needs-especially when you intended to apply for a job whose deadline is that particular day.An intervention is seriously required otherwise we shall hear and see more cries of frustration. phatari@yahoo.co.uk The author is a social commentator