Dear Girls, Parents, and Guardians,
We want to share a story that reminds us all of the power of courage and the importance of speaking out.
Recently, a 15-year-old girl in Rwamagana District in the Eastern Province of Rwanda carried a heavy secret for two and a half days. She had been sexually abused by a man over 45 years old, who posed as a traditional healer treating her mother. He convinced the mother that the same spirit affecting her was also on the girl, allowing him to “perform rituals” with her but behind this guise, he abused her.
The girl feared her mother might be angry or blame her. She felt scared, confused, and alone. But through a safe space created by our Youth Corner Program, she found hope. In this program, we establish clubs in secondary schools where young people can openly discuss important issues such as human rights, reproductive health, mental health, and more.
Through a Friends Let’s Talk About It session (Rungano Tubivugeho), the girl found the courage to speak. At first, she shared her story anonymously with her teacher, one of our club’s mentors. That small act of bravery changed everything.
As a referral, Dorcas Consolation Family (DCF) acted immediately. One staff member spoke with the mother, while another accompanied the girl to the Isange One Stop Center, where her healing process began. Because she sought help within the critical 72-hour window, she received medical care to prevent HIV and unwanted pregnancy, alongside counseling and emotional support. The following day, DCF ensured she could report the case to the Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB).
Today, justice has been served: the man who abused her is in prison. The girl continues to receive ongoing support, and her story is a powerful reminder that no child should ever suffer in silence, and timely intervention can save lives.
At DCF, we remain steadfast in advocating for the rights of women and girls. We train communities, mentor young people, and support families so that girls like her can be heard, protected, and empowered.
We call on parents, teachers, and community members to stay close, listen, and follow up on the well-being of young people. One caring adult, one timely action, and one safe space can break the silence and change a life forever.
With love and hope,
Dorcas Consolation Family (DCF)
Leave A Comment