Gakenke District Leadership Welcomes Tanzanian Delegation to Learn from Rwanda’s Bandebereho Programme

The leadership of Gakenke District, led by Mayor Mukandayisenga Vestine, today warmly received a delegation from Tanzania on a study visit aimed at learning from Rwanda’s experience in implementing the Bandebereho Programme, a flagship initiative that promotes maternal and child health while preventing gender-based violence.

The visit reflects growing regional interest in Rwanda’s community-based approaches to social transformation, particularly programmes that place families at the heart of development. The Tanzanian delegation was received at the district level, underscoring the important role local government plays in translating national policies into tangible impact for citizens.

Welcoming the delegation, Mayor Mukandayisenga Vestine emphasized that Gakenke District is proud to share practical experiences from Bandebereho, a programme that has contributed to improving the wellbeing of pregnant women, children, and families, while also addressing harmful gender norms. She noted that the district’s leadership considers the programme a key pillar in building healthy families and peaceful communities.

The Bandebereho Programme is designed to engage couples especially men in structured community sessions that encourage shared responsibility in family life. Through guided discussions and practical lessons, participants are supported to actively care for pregnant partners, prioritize the health and nutrition of mothers and children, and reject all forms of gender-based violence. This approach has helped shift attitudes and behaviors, fostering mutual respect and cooperation within households.

During the study visit, the Tanzanian delegation sought to gain a deeper understanding of how Bandebereho is implemented at the district level, including coordination mechanisms, community mobilization strategies, and the role of trained facilitators. District officials explained how local authorities work closely with community leaders, health workers, and social protection structures to ensure the programme reaches households effectively and sustainably.

A key area of discussion focused on the role of Gakenke District in preventing and responding to gender-based violence. The delegation learned how Bandebereho complements existing prevention and response systems by tackling the root causes of violence, such as unequal power relations and negative social norms. Emphasis was also placed on referral pathways and support mechanisms that ensure survivors of gender-based violence receive timely and appropriate care.

The visit further provided an opportunity for practical experience sharing, particularly in the delivery of Bandebereho sessions. Facilitators shared insights on leading sensitive discussions, encouraging male engagement, and building trust within communities. These exchanges highlighted the importance of participatory methods and consistent follow-up in achieving long-term behavior change.

District leaders underscored that the success of Bandebereho lies in strong local ownership, where communities view the programme not as an external intervention, but as a shared responsibility aligned with national development goals. This local leadership, they noted, has been critical in sustaining positive outcomes for families across the district.

The Tanzanian delegation expressed appreciation for the warm reception by Gakenke District leadership and for the openness with which experiences were shared. They noted that the lessons learned from Bandebereho particularly its integration of health, gender equality, and community leadership would be valuable in informing similar initiatives in Tanzania.

As the visit concluded, Gakenke District reaffirmed its commitment to continued collaboration and knowledge sharing with regional partners. By hosting the Tanzanian delegation, the district once again demonstrated Rwanda’s readiness to contribute to regional learning and cooperation in promoting maternal health, child wellbeing, and a future free from gender-based violence.