In recent days, social media platforms have seen an increase in the circulation of explicit images and videos featuring Rwandans engaging in nudity and sexual acts.
The Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has consistently warned the public against such activities, reminding them that these are punishable offences under the law.
While attending the 30th National Prayer Breakfast hosted by the Rwanda Leaders Fellowship at Serena Hotel, President Kagame stated that it is unacceptable for society to tolerate individuals walking around naked, as this goes against Rwandan culture.
'I observe trends on social media, where young people roam the streets dressed inappropriately, practically naked. What exactly does someone who dresses like that hope to showcase? There is no religion that encourages nudity, nor is there any family that promotes it. But this nudity is not just physical; it also reflects emptiness in the mind, which is the real issue," the Head of State remarked.
'How can we, as a society, allow such behaviour? As leaders, what responsibilities are we fulfilling if we tolerate such actions? Are we supposed to clothe Rwandans in indecency?'
The President also highlighted that among the challenges reported to him are issues plaguing Rwandan families, including drug abuse, domestic conflicts, and violence, even among newlyweds.
'Families are increasingly unstable, with young couples who have been married for just a few months, even before having children, already facing numerous disputes. Some fight, separate, or engage in other conflicts. As leaders, whether in religious or governmental roles, we must focus on addressing these issues to stabilize Rwandan families," he noted.
A report from Rwanda's judiciary revealed that out of 25,481 civil cases handled by courts in the 2023/2024 period, 2,833 were divorce cases, making them the most common type of civil lawsuit.
President Kagame urged leaders to adopt all possible measures to ensure peaceful and stable families, reiterating that marriage is not meant for constant conflict.
'When you see young people, say 29 or 25 years old, getting married, even at 30, they are still young. They didn't marry to fight daily; they married to build a family, to live in peace, and to grow together,' he said.
He also linked some family conflicts to the misuse of drugs, stating, 'Those involved in drug abuseâ€"whether young or oldâ€"often bring other problems into their families, leading to constant quarrels.'
He stressed that such behaviour often stems from a lack of compromise, as everyone insists on being right. He called on leaders in both religious and governmental circles to take an active role in mitigating these issues, urging them not to remain passive observers.
'Should we just watch and let things fall apart? If so, what role are we really playing? If we fail to fulfil our responsibilities, we deceive ourselves,' he concluded.
In previous years, divorce rates in Rwanda have shown a steady rise. In 2019, 8,941 divorces were finalized in court. In 2020, courts received 3,213 divorce cases, and in 2021/2022, the number rose to 3,322.
IGIHE
