# Exploring drivers and prevention strategies for sexual violence among adolescent girls and young women in Kicukiro, Rwanda

## TL;DR

This study examines the causes and prevention of sexual violence among adolescent girls and young women in Rwanda, highlighting the need for community and legal interventions.

## Contribution

The study identifies tiered drivers and proposes scalable mentorship and legal strategies to prevent sexual violence in sub-Saharan Africa.

## Key findings

- Substance use and transactional sex were key drivers of sexual violence.
- Mentorship programs and community engagement showed promise in mitigating violence.
- Legal literacy and judicial support are critical for addressing systemic barriers.

## Abstract

Sexual violence against adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) is a pervasive issue globally, with particularly high prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa. This study explores the drivers and prevention strategies for sexual violence among AGYW in Kicukiro, Rwanda.

A descriptive exploratory design guided by the socioecological model and feminist standpoint theory was employed. In-depth interviews were conducted with 13 AGYW participating in a mentorship program and 5 male community members. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key drivers and potential prevention strategies.

Four themes emerged: (1) empowering mentorship programs, (2) tiered drivers of sexual violence, (3) optimizing violence-mitigating resources, and (4) interference with judicial processes. Key drivers of sexual violence included substance use, transactional sexual relationships, inadequate family protection, entrenched gender stereotypes, and limited legal literacy.

Findings underscore the need for multifaceted interventions that address systemic and cultural barriers, strengthen legal frameworks, and expand community-based programs. Addressing sexual violence requires a holistic approach, integrating empowerment initiatives, robust community engagement, and legal reforms to create safer environments for AGYW. The mentorship program's success suggests scalability across other settings.