Strategies for promoting gender equality in Rwanda: How do the actors describe their work?

Abstract

This article aimed at exploring measures and strategies used in promoting gender equality in Rwanda. Thirty-eight actors from government, non-government and community-based organisations were interviewed. Using Bacchi’s ‘What is the Problem Represented to be?’ (WPR) framework, the analysis reveals that these actors frame the core problem of gender inequality differently: as gender-based violence, women’s historical disempowerment, misunderstanding of gender equality and neglect of cultural norms. The study concludes that effective gender policy requires context-specific and culturally sensitive strategies, rather than a ‘one-size-fits-all approach’. It emphasises the critical role social work could play in developing sustainable solutions aligning with local realities and values.