The Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) have firmly rejected allegations circulating in the media that accuse Rwandan soldiers on peacekeeping missions in the Central African Republic (CAR) of sexual abuse and gender-based violence.
In a statement issued on October 16, 2024, the RDF refuted claims made by several media outlets, stating that the accusations are baseless. The RDF addressed three specific allegations reported by journalist Barbara Debout, dismissing them as false.
One accusation involved a woman referred to as "Jeanne," a vendor who alleged she was raped by a Rwandan soldier in Bangui in 2023. The RDF clarified that their military base in Bangui does not allow unauthorized civilians inside, making such an incident impossible.
The RDF also denied a separate claim involving a woman named "Grace," 28, who allegedly experienced gender-based violence in Paoua, a northern city. The RDF explained that no Rwandan soldiers had been deployed in that area, thus ruling out the possibility of such an incident.
Another allegation involved two women allegedly assaulted in Ndassima, 400 kilometers from Bangui. The RDF responded by stating that neither Rwandan nor MINUSCA peacekeeping forces had been deployed to that region.
The RDF reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward any form of sexual abuse and emphasized that should any such misconduct occur, it would be handled with the utmost seriousness. However, they insisted that the current accusations are unfounded.
Additionally, the RDF highlighted that incidents of sexual abuse in the Bria region had ceased following the deployment of Rwandan peacekeepers, further discrediting the accusations.
For over a decade, Rwandan forces have been involved in peacekeeping missions in the Central African Republic, and this is the first time such serious allegations have been made against them. In their 20 years of peacekeeping service, Rwandan soldiers have consistently been praised for their professionalism, dedication to protecting civilians, and commitment to maintaining peace and security.
In the statement, the RDF reaffirmed their commitment to supporting peace and security in the Central African Republic and any other regions where their forces are deployed.
