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Bugesera: Children Aged 14 and 16 Reportedly Living as a Married Couple
A 14-year-old girl and a 16-year-old boy in Gakamba Village, Gakamba Cell, Bugesera District, are reportedly living together as a couple, despite both being under the legal age for marriage.
The two children say they are in love and want to continue living together. They have asked not to be separated, arguing that they have feelings for each other and want to remain together.
According to information from the area, the 14-year-old girl has been staying in the boy’s home for some time, with some people referring to her as his wife, although neither of them has reached the legally recognised age for marriage.
However, the head of the primary school where the two children studied says they should not be viewed as adults ready to establish a household. Instead, they remain students whose education should be prioritised.
The school official said the children should return to school and continue their education, given their young age and the importance of ensuring that they complete their studies.
Bugesera District Mayor Mutabazi Richard described the situation as inappropriate and said it reflects serious parental negligence in protecting and supervising children.
Bugesera District Mayor Mutabazi Richard
He stressed that the two children should be separated and returned to school so they can continue their education and grow in an environment appropriate for their age.
Gender-based violence and child protection in Rwanda
The case comes amid continued efforts in Rwanda to prevent gender-based violence and protect women and children from violence and harmful practices. In 2026, Rwanda signed the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, strengthening its commitment to preventing and responding to violence against women and girls.
The latest Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey, conducted in 2025, found that 8% of women aged 15–19 had ever been pregnant, including 6% who had had a live birth. The rate increased sharply with age, reaching 20% among 19-year-olds.
Rwanda continues to strengthen systems for preventing and responding to gender-based violence. In June 2026, the Rwanda National Police hosted regional training focused on improving the investigation of sexual and gender-based violence, supporting survivors and holding perpetrators accountable.
These figures and ongoing interventions highlight the importance of protecting children from situations that can expose them to violence, exploitation, early pregnancy and the disruption of their education.
