In 1991, ethnic tensions were escalating in Rwanda, fuelling sociopolitical upheaval across the country. The multiparty political system had just been introduced, increasing the existing political chaos. The RPA launched its liberation struggle, offering a glimmer of hope, but the broader social, ethnic, economic, and political dysfunctions had already negatively affected the family unit, impacting women and children most acutely. It was in this context that Haguruka was founded. At a time when women and children were facing social injustices throughout the country, there was a need to βstand upβ β the meaning of Haguruka in Kinyarwanda.
For the past 30 years, Haguruka has worked tirelessly to address several challenges that women and children face in claiming their rights. This has been done through offering free legal aid, raining community awareness on GBV, capacitating stakeholders to give better service delivery and contributing to national law reforms, among others.

Our Models
Comprehensive support for vulnerable women and children across Rwanda
Multifamily Healing Spaces
Families who have experienced trauma come together to heal collectively. Through guided dialogue, shared learning, and emotional skill-building, families unlearn cycles of hurt and develop healthier relationships across generations and households.
Couples' Dialogue
Real peace begins at home. HAGURUKA's Couples' Dialogue programme helps partners rebuild trust, improve communication, and share responsibility in the household, creating safer and more equitable homes.
Paralegals Network
HAGURUKA's paralegals are trained community members embedded across Rwanda who provide legal advice, resolve GBV and land disputes, and connect people to essential services close to home.
Women's Safe Spaces
In dedicated safe spaces, women speak freely, learn together, and grow into leaders. Through storytelling, peer support, and legal literacy, participants gain confidence and knowledge to make informed decisions in their lives and communities.











