Journalists Urged to Be Advocates for Child Protection during YOMADO Training
On Friday, May 30, 2025, YOMADO organized a training session in Rilima Sector, Bugesera District, for journalists from various media outlets. The aim was to strengthen collaboration between journalists and child rights organizations in reporting cases of abuse and ensuring children’s rights are protected.
Philbert Seminega, the Executive Director of YOMADO, provided an overview of the organization’s background and achievements in child protection.
“When we started, we noticed that many parents lacked awareness of what constitutes child abuse. Through our awareness campaigns, we’ve educated them about different forms of abuse, children’s rights, and how to build positive relationships with their children. Today, we’re seeing a significant shift parents are more informed and engaged.”
He also noted that YOMADO began an active child advocacy program in August 2024 after receiving support from Plan International. Since then, the organization has carried out several initiatives, especially in Kamabuye and Ngeruka sectors, with visible impact.
The training was also attended by local government officials, including Callixte Gasana, who oversees Early Childhood Development (ECD) programs in Bugesera District.
“I thank YOMADO for organizing this session. As district officials working closely with children, this training enhances our capacity and creates important synergies with the media to protect children’s rights,” Gasana said.
He encouraged journalists to continue focusing on child-centered reporting and urged YOMADO to extend the training period and include more sectors in future sessions.
Appollinarie Bamurange, the Gender and Family Promotion Officer in Bugesera District, commended YOMADO for its ongoing efforts in promoting child rights.
“We encourage YOMADO to expand its programs to reach more communities. While we already have strong collaboration, it’s important that their work reaches all corners of the district,” she said.
She also emphasized the importance of viewing the media as partners in advocacy.
“Media should be seen as allies in this cause, not as critics. Advocacy should not be viewed as a sensational act but as a necessary tool to protect our children.”
YOMADO’s activities are supported by Plan International, and its current programs focus on two sectors: Kamabuye and Ngeruka.
According to Article 4 of the 2023 Ministerial Order on Child Protection issued by the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion, “Every child has the right to proper development. Every parent has the responsibility to care for a child from conception to ensure their full development.”
YOMADO was established in 2008 and operates in the Kamabuye, Rilima, and Ngeruka sectors of Bugesera District. It was officially registered by the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB) in 2015. Its primary mission is to protect children and eliminate all forms of abuse against them.
