Umulisa Laetitia, the director of the Mama Courage organization, which supports young mothers who gave birth out of wedlock, says many of those she helps experience abuse from their families, which also affects their children.
She explains that the children born to these young mothers are often labeled as “Ikinyendaro,” a term that marks the beginning of the abuse.
She stated, “A child is just like any other, but these children born to young mothers are called ‘Ikinyendaro’ within their families. This is a name that devalues them. When you start calling a child a name that denies them dignity in the family, you strip them of their worth.”
She continued, “At school, the child isn’t called by their own name but referred to as ‘Ikinyendaro.’ This abuse originates within our families, and these children are ostracized, despite being just like other children.”
One of the beneficiaries, Marthe Nyiragasigwa, shared her story: “After becoming pregnant, I started worrying about my future, and my education stopped immediately. But now, thanks to Mama Courage, I feel my dream of becoming an entrepreneur is about to come true.”
Nyiragasigwa, who also became pregnant at a young age, described the emotional pain and trauma caused by her mother’s constant insults. She told Iriba News:
“From the time I got pregnant until I gave birth to this child, I endured so much. But with the support of Mama Courage, I’ve gained confidence.
They taught us skills, cared for our children, and provided them with food and porridge. It brings us joy to learn tailoring while knowing our children are being cared for.”
Umulisa further explained that the young mothers who seek her help often arrive with varying levels of trauma due to how their families treat them. She remarked, “You hear them saying, ‘I have no say because I had a child without being married.’ They are perceived as lesser individuals simply because they gave birth.
This must end. A young girl who gave birth prematurely is a human being like anyone else and should not face discrimination. The abuse against them must stop.”
To help these young mothers regain confidence and hope for the future, Mama Courage trains them in vocational skills such as tailoring, crafting various ornaments, and more. Additionally, the organization provides access to mental health experts who support these girls in overcoming their trauma and building self-esteem.
Umulisa believes that the long-term solution to the issue of abuse against young mothers lies in addressing societal attitudes within the Rwandan family. She argues that eliminating gender-based disparities between boys and girls is essential, as these disparities are at the root of the abuse.
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