Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB) has stepped up its awareness campaign aimed at preventing and combating human trafficking, especially in border districts of the Northern Province.
The campaign focuses on educating residents—particularly young people—about avoiding traffickers who lure them with promises of well-paying jobs abroad, only to exploit them in forced labor.
RIB urged the public to carefully verify any job offers before accepting them, warning that inadequate checks can put them at serious risk. Young people were also advised not to rush into going abroad in search of employment, but instead to explore opportunities within Rwanda, where many youth empowerment and entrepreneurship opportunities exist.
According to Ntirenganya Jean Claude, an officer in charge of crime prevention at RIB, statistics show that many trafficked youths pass through border points after being deceived with promises of high-paying jobs abroad. This is why RIB decided to focus awareness efforts in border areas.
He said: “We chose to focus on border areas because that’s where many young people pass when heading abroad for work. Some are promised high salaries, but on arrival they find themselves in forced labor. Some even lose their lives after being trafficked for organ removal.”
He added that RIB will continue working closely with cross-border transport operators and the Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration to prevent human trafficking and track down recruiters who deceive youth, ensuring clarity about the purpose of their travel.
One young survivor who gave testimony said he was lured with a job offer in Thailand with a promised salary of 700 USD per month. Instead of being taken there, he ended up in another country where he was subjected to forced labor.
He explained:“They told me I would get a good job and earn 700 dollars a month. I thought I was going to become rich. But when I arrived, it was completely different. We worked long hours, had no rights, and no communication with our families. It was a very hard life. I thank our government for helping me return to Rwanda through the embassy.”
A resident, Zikamabahari Evaliste from Gatebe Sector; Jabiro Cell,emphasized that Rwanda offers many opportunities for youth.
He said:“Going abroad is not always a good option when our country is full of opportunities. Children should study because education drives national development. Youth should create their own jobs and they will live well and prosper.”
The Mayor of Burera, Mukamana Solina, stated that local authorities are ready to continue collaborating with RIB to fight human trafficking.
She noted:“We will keep mobilizing residents to stay vigilant and share information on time. We urge parents and youth not to be deceived by baseless job promises. We also thank RIB for its continued support in educating our citizens.”
RIB reminded the public to understand the common tricks used by traffickers and to report suspicious information early to prevent crimes. Ensuring safety and human rights requires everyone’s participation.The ongoing campaign is also being conducted in border districts including Gicumbi, Nyagatare, Kirehe, Rusizi, Rubavu, and Bugesera, which are among Rwanda’s border districts.
