The couple of HAFASHIMANA Janvier and MUSABYUMUKIZA Jeanne from Byimana Cell

Hafashimana Janvier and Musabyumukiza Jeanne from Byimana Cell have been married for 13 years and were blessed with six children, although only four are currently living with them. Janvier is 38 years old, while Jeanne is 33 years old.

Janvier shared his personal background and how it influenced his behavior within the family:

"I grew up without my mother, who passed away in 1990, and I was raised by a stepmother who never allowed me to do household chores such as cooking. Because of that upbringing, I believed that domestic responsibilities belonged only to women. This mindset led me to mistreat my wife. Sometimes, when she asked me something, I would slap her simply to prove that I was the man of the house."

Jeanne also described the painful experiences she endured during their marriage:

"For me, life was extremely difficult. At times, I even thought about ending my life because of the constant violence and lack of peace in our home. Whenever he beat her, I would return to my parents with our young children, but they would encourage me to go back and try to rebuild my family. We also struggled financially, and whenever we had money, I had no say in how it was used.

While we were living in Uganda, whenever I suggested that we plan for a better future, he would beat me, accusing me of challenging his authority. After returning to Rwanda, I started small-scale trading to support the family, yet I still carried the entire burden of household responsibilities. Sometimes, out of pain and frustration, I would deny him food to express how hurt I felt."

Janvier explained how the Gender Equality and Resilience (GEAR) Project transformed his perspective and behavior:

"Today, we sincerely thank the Gender Equality and Resilience Project. The training opened my eyes and completely changed my life. I realized that the way I treated my wife was wrong. True manhood is not about violence or control, but about love, respect, and partnership. I made a personal decision to change, and now, instead of using my strength to hurt my wife, I use it to make her happy. I now share household responsibilities with her and even fetch water for the family."

Jeanne also testified to the positive changes she has witnessed since the training:

"Since the training, our lives have greatly improved. My husband sincerely apologized to me, and today I feel respected, valued, and loved. People even tell me that I now look healthier and happier than before. I finally have peace in my heart, and I feel confident that even if something happened to me, my children would remain in safe and caring hands."