Graduating Families, Growing Equality — The Bandebereho Story
In the rolling hills of Gakenke District, joy and pride filled the air as hundreds of parents from Ruli and Gatonde hospital catchment areas celebrated their graduation from the Bandebereho Program on September 30, 2025. The initiative, led by the Rwanda Men’s Resource Centre (RWAMREC), champions men’s active participation in maternal health, positive parenting, caregiving, and violence prevention — transforming homes and communities across Rwanda.
The ceremonies, held at cell level and officiated by the Mayor of Gakenke District, gathered thousands of residents during weekly community dialogues (Inteko z’abaturage) and coincided with the Gender Accountability Days.
In total, 38,180 people took part — including 17,814 men and 20,366 women. Among them, 1,908 couples successfully completed the first cycle of Bandebereho group education sessions, facilitated by Community Health Workers (CHWs) trained by RWAMREC.
Many graduates shared moving stories of transformation: reduced family conflict, stronger partnerships, and renewed commitment to shared caregiving. A touching highlight came when 109 couples pledged to legalize their unions, with 32 already married and more following soon.
Local leaders applauded RWAMREC’s tireless work, emphasizing how the program is reshaping communities by encouraging men to become equal partners in their homes.
“Bandebereho has taught us that equality starts in the family — when fathers care, families thrive,” one father shared.
Today, Bandebereho stands as a model of community-driven transformation, proving that engaging men is key to achieving gender equality and stronger families.