For the Kids, A Comparative Analysis of Rwandan and US Legal Systems
A Confluence of Nonprofits: Preparing for the Roundtable
This past week, we had an insightful visit to the Prison Fellowship Rwanda office. We met with other nonprofits to prepare for the upcoming round table event, organized by RBJ and funded by the EU. The meeting was an opportunity to discuss the agenda and finalize the topics for the conference, which will involve many Civil Society Organizations (CSO) and Non-profit Government Organizations (NGO).
One of the goals outlined in the funding reports was to arrange for a representative from the US to talk to students about American law and how it contrasts with the Rwandan legal system. This led us to engage with the youth in high schools across Rwanda, specifically in three schools: Christ Roi, St. Aloys, and Apagie Musha, located in the eastern and southern provinces.
Our discussions were largely centered around the dangers of drug abuse and differences between the legal systems of Rwanda and the US. The students showed interest in the idea of a federal and state system where each state can implement variations of certain laws. We also talked about the criminal law system in the US, with my colleague Benard effectively comparing it with the Rwandan system through hypothetical scenarios and potential legal consequences under each.
Afterwards, we opened the discussion to the broader topic of life in the US. I shared my observations, noting the difference in homelessness between the two countries. In Rwanda, homeless individuals are fewer, partly due to transitional centers that provide mental health services. Still, issues with street children, drugs, and mischief remain. The discussion aimed to discourage students from falling into drug abuse or underage drinking.
Kigali, the capital city, is known for its cleanliness and structure. Guiding the youth away from harmful influences is crucial for their future and the society they live in. By providing them with knowledge early on and promoting their active involvement in their communities, we can contribute to a fair society. This is why initiatives like workshops, seminars, community programs, and school collaborations are important—they empower the youth to become advocates for justice and human rights in Rwanda.
After the packed week, I took some time off to play tennis—a habit I usually keep to an hour per day but extended to two hours this weekend. Interestingly, the cost of private tennis training in Rwanda is just $4 an hour, a notable difference from the rates in the US.