TFGBV Dialogue: Strengthening Rwanda’s Response to Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence

Kigali, Rwanda – 6th November 2025 – RWAMREC, in partnership with Inspire Impact Hub, hosted a national dialogue on Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) at Serena Hotel, Kigali. The event convened government institutions, UN agencies, civil society

organizations, journalists, digital influencers, and young people to discuss the growing challenge of online gender-based violence in Rwanda and explore actionable strategies for prevention, protection, and justice.

Understanding Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV)

The dialogue opened with a welcome address highlighting the urgent need to address TFGBV, which refers to the use of digital technology to perpetrate harassment, sexual exploitation, cyberstalking, sextortion, and other forms of abuse.

Fidele Rutayisire, Executive Director of RWAMREC, highlighted the organization’s mission to promote positive masculinity, advance gender equality, and combat gender-based violence in Rwanda. He presented key findings from recent Generation G (Gen G) program research on Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV), detailing the social, psychological, and economic impacts on victims and underscoring the urgent need for coordinated national action. RWAMREC also expressed gratitude to its partners, including Inspire Impact Hub, RUTGERS, MIGEPROF, and MICT, for their ongoing support and collaboration.

Keynote Address: Strengthening Legal and Policy Responses to TFGBV

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and Innovation (MICT), Eraste Rurangwa, delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the need for Rwanda’s legal framework to keep pace with rapid technological advancements. He highlighted:

• The importance of criminalizing non-consensual sharing of intimate images.

• Holistic, survivor-centered responses ensuring protection, justice, and psychosocial support for victims.

• The upcoming launch of the Humura App, a digital platform connecting TFGBV victims with experts anonymously, to be rolled out during the 16 Days of Activism in collaboration with MIGEPROF and MICT.

The Permanent Secretary also called on media houses, telecommunication companies, civil society, and government agencies to work collectively to create a safer digital environment for Rwandans.

Research Presentation: TFGBV Trends in Rwanda

Gisele Umutoniwase, Director of Programs at RWAMREC, presented research findings on Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence in Rwanda. The research defines Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) as acts of violence, harassment, or coercion enabled through digital tools — from cyberstalking and online harassment to sextortion, doxing, and non-consensual image sharing. The study highlights how young and middle-aged women (18–25), particularly public figures, activists, and LGBTQ+ individuals, are among the most affected.

As Rwanda experiences rapid digital growth — with over 12.5 million mobile subscribers, 34.2% internet penetration, and more than 1.3 million active social media users — the risks of online abuse have also intensified. Anonymity and the viral reach of technology make it easier for perpetrators to act and harder for victims to seek justice. Platforms such as X, YouTube, and WhatsApp emerged as common spaces where TFGBV occurs.

Gisele also underscored critical legal and social gaps: while Rwanda has made significant progress through its Law on the Prevention and Punishment of GBV (2018) and Data Privacy Law (2021), there is still a lack of clear terminology around TFGBV in the Penal Code and limited public awareness that these acts constitute crimes. Survivors face victim-blaming, psychological trauma, reputational damage, and even suicidal ideation, particularly when online violence spills over into real-life isolation and stigma.

To address these challenges, the research calls for enhanced digital safety measures, survivor-centered services, and stronger collaborations among tech platforms, law enforcement, and civil society. Gisele concluded by urging stakeholders to invest in digital literacy, positive online behavior campaigns, and targeted policies that protect women and girls in virtual spaces.

ALSO READ: Scars Beyond the Screen: Understanding the Forms, Consequences, and Responses to Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) in Rwanda — for an in-depth look at the study’s findings, real survivor narratives, and actionable recommendations.

Panel Discussion: National and Global Perspectives

Moderated by Dona, the panel included experts from government, UN agencies, and civil society:

• Dr. Thierry Murangira (RIB) – Shared data on TFGBV-related crimes in Rwanda (2017–2024: 59 cases) and discussed challenges like anonymity and online sextortion.

• Nicholas Muneza (UN Women) – Highlighted global trends in TFGBV, noting that 38% of women worldwide report online violence. He emphasized initiatives under the African Union Convention to combat cyber-based gender violence.

• Thérèse Karugwiza (UNFPA) – Discussed campaigns like “Breaking the Silence on TFGBV” and integrating digital safety education into Comprehensive Sexuality Education.

• Jean Baptiste Hitimana (MIGEPROF) – Shared policy updates, including integrating TFGBV into Rwanda’s revised GBV frameworks, multimedia awareness campaigns, and enhanced reporting mechanisms.

Reflections and Recommendations

Panelists highlighted challenges such as online secondary victimization, gaps in legislation, and social stigma. Recommendations included:

• Strengthening digital literacy and awareness campaigns.

• Advocating for explicit legal recognition of TFGBV.

• Coordinating multi-stakeholder responses, including families, schools, and media influencers.

The Permanent Secretary of MIGEPROF emphasized:"Our families are our legacy. Rwanda belongs to all of us — government, media, and citizens alike — and it is our collective duty to protect it."

Closing Remarks: Call to Action

Rose Rwabuhihi from Inspire Impact Hub stressed the importance of viewing TFGBV as a national security issue, stating:"Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence spreads harm through our digital networks, reaching our communities and families. This is a serious threat that requires urgent action."

Three key recommendations emerged:

1. Policy and legal reforms – Contribute to ongoing law revisions to criminalize TFGBV effectively.

2. Investment in digital literacy and online safety – Equip citizens with knowledge to navigate the digital space safely.

3. Building partnerships – Unite government, civil society, and private sector actors to prevent and respond to TFGBV.

As Rwanda enters the 16 Days of Activism, this dialogue marks the beginning of sustained action to ensure safe and inclusive digital spaces for all Rwandans.