Friday, 23rd May 2025 — Marriot Hotel, Kigali

The Institute of Legal Practice and Development (ILPD), in partnership with UNICEF Rwanda, organized a Law Dinner aimed at mainstreaming child rights through Juvenile Justice, with a view toward establishing a community of juvenile justice practitioners.

The event brought together senior officials from justice sector institutions in Rwanda, representatives from NGOs, national and international partners in the field of justice, as well as alumni of the Postgraduate Diploma in Child Justice Program.

In his remarks, Dr. Aimé Muyoboke Karimunda, Rector of ILPD, highlighted the importance of establishing a network of child rights experts as a significant contribution to the field.

He stated: "Graduates in child justice and current students working together will become catalysts for transformative change in child rights and justice. We all interact with children, but what sets them apart is their specialized knowledge in protecting the children of our country."

Leon Muwoni, Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF Rwanda, acknowledged that while Rwanda's justice system is well-structured, gaps remain in delivering justice for children. He pointed out challenges such as children being tried as adults and stressed the importance of alternative forms of rehabilitation over imprisonment.

"This is why UNICEF partners with ILPD—to train professionals who will enter the workforce and advocate for comprehensive justice for children," he explained.

The Deputy Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Alphonse Nteziyaremye, emphasized the country’s growing focus on resolving disputes outside the formal court system, particularly with special attention to vulnerable groups such as women, children, and persons with disabilities.

He said: "The government recognizes that children are vulnerable and need protection to grow and thrive. We are committed to ensuring that all children can realize their potential and access justice while being shielded from harm."

Following the decision to establish the network of juvenile justice practitioners, the next step will be to plan its leadership structure and operational framework, setting the stage for the network to begin its activities.