Empowering Young Women in Rwanda's Local Governance

Rwanda stands as a global exemplar of gender equality, particularly in the realm of leadership and governance. The recent legislative elections boosted women's parliamentary representation from 61.3% to 63.75%, a remarkable achievement. However, this progress does not extend equally to local governance, where women constitute only 28.6% of mayors and 14.3% of Vice Mayors in charge of Economic Affairs. Deep-rooted socio-cultural norms continue to limit women's leadership roles in households, communities, and governance structures.

To address these challenges, UN Women, in collaboration with the Rwanda Association of Local Government Authorities (RALGA) and the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion (MIGEPROF), launched an enriching internship programme under the UN Joint Programme entitled "Leveraging the Potential of Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment to Achieve Rwanda’s Transformation", which was implemented between 2019-2024. This initiative equipped young female graduates with the skills and experience needed to overcome barriers to leadership in their communities and local government structures.

The programme aimed to increase women's representation and participation in local governance by exposing young women to leadership opportunities and raising awareness of local government as a viable career path. Over the six-month internship period, female graduates are placed in various local government offices across the country, where they tackle real-world challenges faced by local communities. To date, through UN Women`s support, 365 young women have benefited from the programme, with many securing positions in local governance structures after graduation.

Cynthia Isimbi, a young woman who interned at the Mayor`s office in Bugesera district, gave recognition to the transformative impact the programme has had on her life so far.

 “When I found out that I was selected for this internship, I felt a surge of excitement, but also relief. I knew I finally had a pathway to employment and the opportunity to realize my leadership ambitions.” Cynthia now holds a position in Bugesera's local government.

Interns are matched with roles based on their academic background, gaining experience in public administration, economics, health, sanitation, urban development, and other areas. This holistic approach helps them understand the complexities of local governance. Cynthia, assigned as a hygiene and sanitation officer, conducted public hygiene inspections and facilitated behavior change trainings, contributing to increased public awareness and enrollment in the Community-Based Health Insurance (CBHI) programme.

Janviere Mukandayisenga, Vice Mayor of Social Affairs in Kirehe District, praised the programme: “This internship is crucial in bridging gender gaps in leadership at the local level. These young women are instrumental in preparing, implementing, and reporting on the district performance contracts (IMIHIGO).”

For many participants, the internship involves relocating, which fosters independence and self-leadership. Cynthia noted, “Moving away from home for this internship was challenging, but in hindsight, I can say that it was instrumental in shaping me into an independent, self-sufficient woman.”

Speaking at the recent graduation ceremony on August 14, 2024, the UN Women Representative in Rwanda, Ms. Jennet Kem, emphasized the programme's importance. “This initiative is an investment in the future of young women and a step towards accelerating gender equality and women’s empowerment in Rwanda's broader transformation. It calls for a commitment to breaking down barriers and providing women with the resources and opportunities to excel,” said Ms. Kem.

As the next cohort of 116 young female graduates prepares to embark on this journey, Cynthia offered words of encouragement: “Being a woman is not a limitation, but a strength. Be bold, hardworking, courageous, and confident in your abilities. With self-trust, you can overcome any challenge and make the most of this enriching experience.”