Rwanda: Advocates Push for Expanded Access to Safe and Legal Abortion

Some women’s rights activists in Rwanda are advocating for a more liberal abortion law, arguing that the current restrictions are leading to unsafe abortions and endangering women’s lives.

Currently, Rwandan law permits abortion only in cases of rape, incest, forced marriage, or when the mother’s life is at risk. However, activists contend that these exceptions are insufficient to address the diverse range of circumstances in which women may seek abortion.

“When someone undergoes an unsafe abortion, they risk serious health complications, infertility, or even death,” said Igihozo Yassina, a reproductive health and gender equality expert at Rwanda NGOs Forum HIV/AIDS. “Safe abortion, on the other hand, is a safe medical procedure. By restricting access to safe abortion, we are putting women’s lives at unnecessary risk.”

Musabyimana Yvonne, founder and chair of Strive for Inclusion Rwanda, agrees. “There are many reasons why a woman might need an abortion,” she explained. “It could be due to unplanned pregnancy, financial constraints, or simply not feeling ready to be a mother. By denying women access to safe abortion, we are forcing them to seek out dangerous and illegal procedures.”

Wibabara Charity, a coordinator of international crimes prosecution in the ministry of justice, clarified that Rwandan law considers abortion illegal, with exceptions introduced in 2018 for cases of rape, forced marriage, incest, or situations where the pregnancy endangers the mother’s life. She emphasized the clarity of the law regarding the illegality of abortion.

The law criminalizes self-induced abortion, punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine. Performing an abortion on another person is a more serious offense, carrying a potential sentence of up to five years. In cases of negligence or carelessness leading to abortion, the penalty is reduced but still significant. If the abortion results in disability or death, the offender faces much harsher penalties, including life imprisonment.

As the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign continues, these activists are urging the Rwandan government to reconsider its stance on abortion and prioritize the health and safety of women and girls.

Editorial