Violence Against Women
Source: New Times
Rwanda has scooped the United Nations Public Service Award (UNPSA) 2012 for its efforts in fighting Sexual and Gender Based Violence (SGBV).
The award dubbed "Promoting Gender Responsive Delivery" of Public Services is in recognition of the success of the Isange One-Stop Centre, which operates under Rwanda National Police.
According to a UN statement, UNPSA is the most prestigious international recognition of excellence in public service. The announcement was made by the UN office, Division for Public Administration and Development Management.
The centre, situated at Kacyiru Police Hospital, was established in 2009 through the advocacy of the First Lady, Jeannette Kagame, to offer free medical assistance to victims of GBV.
Isange one-Stop Centre was established as part of a broader national campaign against Gender Based Violence. Based in Kacyiru, Gasabo District, the centre provides free medical care, legal and psycho-social services such as counselling to GBV victims.
It also has a safe room, where victims receive other basic services like meals, clothing and shelter. All this is aimed at helping victims to access timely justice, according to officials. The centre is supported by One UN-Rwanda, among other partners. The awarding ceremony will take place in New York next month, the statement says.