On 23 June 2026, the Ministry of Justice, in partnership with UNICEF Rwanda, convened a Stakeholders’ Dialogue on Advancing Child Justice in Rwanda, bringing together key actors to strengthen efforts towards a more child-friendly justice system.

The dialogue marked a significant milestone with the launch of Rwanda’s diversion pilot programme for children in conflict with the law. The initiative aims to promote alternatives to formal judicial proceedings for eligible children, ensuring that justice responses are age-appropriate, protective, and focused on rehabilitation and reintegration.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary and Solicitor General in the Ministry of Justice, Me Mbonera Théophile, underscored the importance of adopting justice approaches that recognize the unique needs and circumstances of children.

“Diversion is not an absence of accountability,” he stated. “Rather, it is a structured and child-sensitive response that seeks to hold children accountable in a proportionate, constructive, and rehabilitative manner.”

He further emphasized that every child who comes into conflict with the law remains, first and foremost, a child with potential, aspirations, and a future still being shaped. He noted that justice interventions should therefore prioritize the child’s best interests while supporting their positive development and reintegration into society.

The diversion pilot programme reflects a shared commitment by government institutions, development partners, and justice sector stakeholders to ensure that every child who comes into contact with the justice system has access to fair, supportive, and protective processes. By promoting rehabilitation over punishment where appropriate, the initiative is expected to contribute to better outcomes for children, families, and communities.

The stakeholders’ dialogue provided an important platform for reaffirming collective efforts to strengthen Rwanda’s child justice system and ensure that no child is left behind in the pursuit of justice and protection.