REWU receives the Ghai-Larissa Award for its contribution towards to End Child Labor in Africa 

Addis Ababa: 11th May 2022: The African Child Policy Forum (ACPF) has proudly awarded the Certificate of the recognition to the Rwanda Extractive Industry Workers Union (REWU), in recognition of its exceptional contribution towards eradicating Child Labour in Africa.

The second Awards which is part of Ghai-Larissa Award Special Edition 2021 on Child labor was received by REWU secretary General, Eng. Andre Mutsindashyaka who is in Addis Ababa to participate in the PAN-AFRICAN SYMPOSIUM ON VIOLENCE PREVENTION.

Eng. Mutsindashyaka expressed special gratitude to the ACPF Executive Director Dr. Joan Nyanyuki and her team for this recognition which proves the solidarity of African Civil society organizations as well as trade unions to end Child labor in Africa

Commenting on the award, Eng. Mutsindashyaka said that “On behalf of Rwandese mine workers we have achieved this through being strongly united and staying accountable on our duties, thanks to the Good Governance of our country Rwanda which is working always to promote social protection of the citizens;”

He added that this achievement was made also “thanks to the good collaboration with various Government’s Institutions; owners of mine and quarry companies in Rwanda, the strong partnership with World Vision Rwanda in promoting social protection as well as UNICEF Rwanda whom we are working in promoting Child care at working place”. 

During the panel on 12th May, 2022, Eng. Mutsindashyaka shared with participants in the symposium the best practices of REWU in community mobilization for social changes, where he recommended them to be engaged and committed actively as well as to persist in building community capacities and awareness until the changes appears.

“Where there’s a will there’s a way.” He said.

“Aluta continua, the campaign continues, a child is a leader, teacher, miner, businessman, Doctor, etc…….of tomorrow. Let us continue to contribute as much as we can in order to build the Rwanda and Africa we want” Eng. Andre Mutsindashyaka added

On the African Continent, the best performer who is the Winner of Ghai-Larissa Award special Edition 2021, is the DRC integrated programmes, the Good Shepherd International Foundation while REWU was awarded as the Second winner. 

Only those two organizations were awarded for their outstanding role in campaigning against child labor.